By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has destroyed contraband goods smuggled into the country in its fight against smuggling.
According to a URA statement issued on Tuesday, 20th May, 2026, the exercise took place at Luweero Industries Ltd in Nakasongola District, an approved government destruction facility where confiscated illegal products were disposed of under strict security supervision.
At the center of the operation were 37.5 tonnes of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately Shs5.4 billion.
The cigarettes formed part of a wider collection of goods seized by URA enforcement teams during recent anti-smuggling and tax compliance operations conducted across different parts of the country.
The destruction marked one of the largest anti-contraband actions witnessed in recent months and reflects growing efforts by authorities to dismantle smuggling networks and curb tax evasion.
According to URA officials, many of the destroyed products had entered Uganda through illegal routes without payment of taxes, while others failed to meet required safety and regulatory standards, making them unsuitable and potentially harmful for public consumption.
