The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement team in Malaba has successfully intercepted a cigarette smuggling operation in a recent crackdown on illicit trade.

The operation, dubbed “Smoke Screen,” was initiated following a tip-off from a newly recruited informant who alerted authorities to a suspicious vehicle, UBN 672Y, believed to be involved in smuggling.

Responding swiftly to the intelligence, the enforcement team moved to stop the vehicle before it could escape their surveillance.

The driver, who had previously evaded arrest by blending in with the crowd in smart attire, was caught off guard this time. After a brief chase through the streets of Tororo town, the driver was arrested near the Central Police Station.

Upon inspecting the vehicle, authorities found a substantial quantity of illegal cigarettes, including 1,721 bombas, 10 packets, and 20 sticks of Supermatch brand cigarettes.

Both the contraband and the driver were immediately taken into custody and transferred to Kampala for further investigation and prosecution.

URA officials praised the team’s effectiveness and reiterated the importance of intelligence-driven operations in disrupting smuggling networks.

URA emphasized that combating illegal trade, including cigarette smuggling, is crucial for protecting the economy.

Smuggling not only deprives the government of vital tax revenue but also undermines law-abiding businesses. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to help authorities crack down on such illegal operations.