By Irene Kabakama
As part of efforts to combat illicit trade, Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) enforcement team in Busitema has thwarted another smuggling attempt, recovering 75 bags of smuggled rice.
On Saturday, May 10, the team was alerted to a report about a substantial quantity of rice being consolidated in a store within Butema, in Bugiri District. Upon arrival, the team discovered that the goods were indeed being prepared for transportation to Kampala.
After a grueling battle, the team successfully delivered the goods to the Busitema office where physical verification revealed 75 bags of 25kg assorted premium rice originating from Pakistan and 6 packages of 40kg Hilal Premium Basmati rice.
Since the rice originates from outside the East African region, it is subject to import duty at a rate of 75%. The importer is required to pay the applicable taxes and penalties for smuggling.
Meanwhile, a similar operation conducted on May 11 at Namungodi trading centre in Busia district led to the recovery of 233 smartphones. Offence management is underway.
