KABALE – The Katuna Border post business community in Kabale district has accused security officials and Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) customs officers of facilitating smuggling activities.
During a tax baraza organized by URA at Katuna One Stop Border Point, leaders such as Samuel Sserwanga Bunkeddeko, Justus Tindimurekura, a tobacco trader, and Bright Arineitwe, Chairperson of Bus Companies, claimed that security personnel and URA customs officials accept bribes, enabling the illegal movement of goods into the country.
They also alleged that URA officials in Uganda impose higher taxes on certain items, such as tobacco, compared to their Rwandan counterparts.
CUE IN TRADERS….ON SMUGGLING……RR/ENG//
During the discussion, Gordon Mutungi, the officer in charge of URA customs office at Katuna border post, disclosed that goods worth about 15,000 dollars (approximately 50 million shillings) were seized from smugglers between July and December 2023.
CUE IN MUTUNGI…..ON SMUGGLING…..RR/ENG//
Responding to these accusations, Kabale Deputy Resident District Commissioner Ronald Bakak acknowledged the issue, stating that security personnel involved in smuggling should cease their activities or face arrest and prosecution.
CUE IN BAKAK….ON SECURITY…..LUG/ENG//
The most commonly smuggled items included mobile phones, cosmetics, beers, and cattle.
