URA Warns Boda Boda Riders Against Cross-Border Smuggling Activities
Commercial motorcycle riders in West Nile have been warned against transporting smuggled and prohibited goods from the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, with authorities cautioning that the practice undermines government revenue collection and violates trade laws.
The warning was issued during a sensitisation meeting in Pakwach District, where Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officials educated riders on import and export regulations. The officials highlighted commonly smuggled goods, including fuel, cigarettes, cooking oil, second-hand electronics, bleaching cosmetics, and motorcycles that exceed the country’s import age limit.
The Northern Regional Manager of URA, Simon Tumwesigye, urged riders to verify the goods they transport, warning that motorcycles used in illegal trade risk confiscation and their owners could face prosecution.
Pakwach District Boda Boda Chairperson, Innocent Avola, welcomed the awareness campaign, saying several riders have lost motorcycles after being linked to smuggling activities. Avola cited a recent incident where a rider was arrested while allegedly transporting bush meat believed to have been sourced from Murchison Falls National Park. He encouraged riders to comply with the law and avoid attempting to bypass security and URA checkpoints.
The engagement is part of URA’s “Engage, Educate and Enforce” communication strategy being rolled out across the West Nile region. The campaign started earlier this week in Terego, Maracha, and Pakwach districts and is continuing in Zombo, Arua, and other areas.URA Regional Supervisor for Stakeholder Relations, Clare Sanyu, said the initiative is intended to improve public awareness and promote compliance with tax and trade regulations.
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