Malaba: Electronics Worth UGX 200M Seized, Car Dumped As Smuggling Deal Flops Terribly

By Swift Reporter

Malaba, Uganda — The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Malaba Enforcement Team has intercepted a vehicle transporting hundreds of smuggled electronic devices in an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing cross-border illicit trade.

The operation resulted in the seizure of a Toyota Wish, registration number UAZ 075W, which was found carrying 942 smartphones and 3,379 smartphone screens, alongside other undeclared goods.

According to URA officials, the enforcement action followed credible intelligence indicating that the vehicle was transporting contraband electronics from Kenya through the Malaba border for distribution in Kampala.

The operation began on January 29, 2026, after enforcement officers received a tip-off about the suspect vehicle. The car was later sighted in Busia Town, prompting officers to deploy a motorcycle team to discreetly monitor its movements.

At about 9:40 PM, intelligence confirmed that the vehicle had entered a fenced compound where the electronics were being loaded. To secure a successful interception, enforcement officers deployed a covert vehicle disguised as commercial transport heading toward Mbale and positioned an ambush along the Busitema–Tororo Road after maneuvering through Nagongera Road.

However, the suspect vehicle reportedly sped past the ambush point despite repeated signals to stop, triggering a high-speed pursuit. The chase ended near the Ndaiga Police Checkpoint, where the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

A subsequent search conducted at the police station revealed the concealed cargo, which included:

• 942 assorted new smartphones
• 3,379 LCD touch screens of various smartphone models
• 60 embroidered ladies’ polyester Sharia dresses
• Assorted soaps and lotions

Shortly after the seizure, a man identified as Hamuza Muyomba reportedly approached URA enforcement officers claiming to represent the vehicle owner, who was said to be in shock following the interception.

Preliminary assessments estimate the value of the seized consignment at over UGX 200 million. Both the vehicle and the recovered goods remain detained at the URA park yard pending further investigations and legal action in accordance with the law.

URA officials say the interception underscores ongoing efforts to combat smuggling, protect legitimate trade, and safeguard government revenue.