By Frank Kamuntu
URA recently intercepted a smuggling attempt of more than 200 mobile phones in Busia.
On the afternoon of January 17th, URA’s enforcement team in Busitema received information of a suspicious Toyota Wish Reg Number UBR 482C that was headed towards the Busitema checkpoint with suspected uncustomed goods.
Armed with this information, the team quickly mobilized and prepared to apprehend the economic saboteur.
Within a few minutes, the suspected vehicle approached the Busitema junction and made a sharp turn towards Tororo. A brief chase ensued and the vehicle was netted close to the university.
It was driven back where verification was done, revealing 204 pieces of smartphones.
The branded handsets included 1 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, 5 used Samsung Galaxy S10Es, 3 used Samsung Galaxy S20s, 4 used Samsung Galaxy Note 8s, 11 used Samsung Galaxy S10s, 10 used Samsung Galaxy S10 Pluses, 70 Infinix Note 40 Pros, 30 Tecno Camon 30 Premier 5Gs, and 70 Tecno Phantom X2s.
The concealment of phones with the intention to smuggle is a violation of Section 202 of the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA) of 2004, as amended.
The act also prescribes a penalty of 50% of the value of the goods, while failure to declare the phones to a customs officer contravenes Sections 45 and 46, with penalties addressed according to Section 209.
The Toyota Wish used in this smuggling attempt will be treated according to Section 199 of the EACCMA, which prescribes a penalty of $5,000.
URA reaffirms its commitment to protecting legitimate trade from unfair competition caused by cheaper, uncustomed goods. The public is encouraged to report suspicious trade practices to help level the trading field.
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