A kitenge smuggling operation was foiled in Tororo after URA enforcement officers intercepted a vehicle loaded with 79 bundles—equivalent to 790 pieces—of waxed cotton fabric.
The driver, who was transporting the goods from Busia in a Bighorn Isuzu (UAP 446G), sped off when flagged down, triggering a chase that stretched from Busia to Tororo.
“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,” an enforcement officer narrated.
The vehicle was escorted to the Malaba Enforcement Office, where officers conducted a full verification and uncovered the concealed fabric. URA says the case is being handled according to customs laws.
The seizure is significant both in volume and timing. It follows another kitenge interception earlier this month in Mbale, reinforcing URA’s concerns that smugglers are increasing activity as the festive season nears.
“Our teams are more vigilant, and we shall ensure all traders go through proper customs procedures,” said Moses Wanjala, the acting Manager of Enforcement Operations for the Eastern region.
URA has pledged to intensify operations on major eastern routes as demand-driven smuggling spikes toward Christmas.
