URA Destroys Tons of Contraband Goods Over Tax Stamp Violations

The seized items included juices, soft drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and cement products that did not meet tax and health safety standards.

Mugema Stephen, the URA’s DTS enforcement officer, said the crackdown aimed to collect revenue, ensure consumer safety, and promote fair trade.

“As URA, we are tasked with a duty to collect revenue for national development. Goods without Digital Tax Stamps indicate non-compliance. DTS is also a safety measure since goods that are not certified by UNBS cannot be stamped,” Mugema said during the operation.

Authorities believe the large-scale destruction sends a strong message to traders attempting to evade taxes and disregard public safety. The URA emphasized that compliance with DTS regulations is mandatory.

Mugema stressed that ongoing enforcement is necessary to ensure fair competition in the market by preventing non-compliant traders from gaining an unfair advantage.

He urged business owners to comply with DTS requirements to avoid penalties and losses.

“We urge all operators to adhere to the DTS requirements to avoid financial losses and legal repercussions,” he added.

Mugema also called on the public to be vigilant and avoid purchasing unstamped goods, urging them to report any violations to the URA.

The URA stated that this destruction is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen tax compliance enforcement nationwide.