The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has seized a major consignment of smuggled kitenge fabric as enforcement teams heighten operations ahead of the festive season, a period officials say often triggers a surge in smuggling.
The latest incident occurred on the night of November 15, when an Isuzu Bighorn, registration number UAP 446G, was intercepted in Tororo District after a high-speed chase that began in Busia.
An enforcement officer said the driver defied repeated signals to stop. “Despite our repeated signals instructing the driver to stop, he refused to comply. We then carefully maneuvered ahead of the suspect, and upon realizing he could not outrun our team, the driver stopped,” the officer explained.
When the vehicle was escorted to the Malaba Enforcement Office, officials discovered 79 bundles of waxed cotton kitenge, each containing 10 pieces — one of the biggest single seizures reported this month.
The case is being handled under customs laws.
The interception follows a similar operation in Mbale earlier this month, where another smuggler was caught with undeclared kitenge fabric. Officials link the spike in such cases to the festive season, which typically attracts high-demand goods.
Moses Wanjala, the acting Manager of Enforcement Operations for the Eastern region, said surveillance has been intensified. “Our teams are more vigilant, and we shall ensure all traders go through proper customs procedures,” he said.