Customs officials in Kiboga District have intercepted a truck carrying smuggled cosmetics cleverly disguised under a shipment of coffee husks.
The Fuso truck (UBF 073B) was stopped during a planned operation.
According to URA, intelligence indicated that bodaboda riders were moving cosmetics to a waiting truck in Kyankwanzi town, prompting authorities to deploy a covert surveillance team alongside units ready for interception.
“We stopped and impounded the truck past Kiboga town and subsequently moved it to the Hoima customs yard for further processing of the offence,” a URA official said.
Upon inspection, officers discovered 78 cartons of Pawpaw Body Oil (60 ml) and 8 cartons of Princess Claire Body Lotion (250 ml) hidden beneath the coffee husks. Officials noted that using agricultural products to disguise contraband is a common smuggling tactic.
The case is being handled under customs law, which allows for fines of up to $5,000 for vehicles involved in smuggling, in addition to the mandated destruction of the seized items.
Enock Mwanje, Enforcement Supervisor for the Albertine region, praised the operation, saying it demonstrates stronger community collaboration and improved border monitoring.
He further warned traders to follow customs regulations, stressing: “Involvement in illegal trade not only reduces government revenue but may also result in significant personal financial penalties.”
The URA operation underscores ongoing efforts to clamp down on smuggling in Uganda, protecting both legitimate trade and national revenue streams.