The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Enforcement team at Entebbe International Airport recently intercepted a significant consignment of smuggled mobile phone accessories valued at USD 90,000 (Shs 329.3 million).
The seized items included 1,172 packets of button phone screens and 22,837 packets of LCD/LED phone screens. With the growing demand for smartphone spare parts, such high-value goods have become a prime target for smuggling, as criminals attempt to bypass taxes and duties.
The operation targeted individuals often referred to as “Kadamas”—travelers typically returning from the Middle East—who are sometimes recruited to ferry undeclared goods in exchange for quick cash.
During one peak-hour operation, while three major flights were on the ground, a group of Kadamas attempted to bypass customs by exploiting the passenger congestion. They tried to push suitcases through without scanning, but a vigilant border control officer flagged them for inspection. When confronted, the women resisted verification, claiming they only carried personal items and used clothes.
As the situation escalated, the three lingered suspiciously near the scanners before suddenly bolting from the arrivals terminal, pushing their trolleys. Their attempted escape ended in the airport parking lot, where officers intercepted their waiting getaway vehicle. Six suitcases were recovered, each concealing mobile phone screens under layers of used clothing.
Elsewhere at the airport, a surveillance officer discovered four abandoned bags full of phone screens near the baggage handler’s area—likely left behind as smugglers looked for an opportunity to retrieve them undetected. Another airline handler was caught attempting to smuggle out three suitcases disguised as “rush bags.”
In another incident, URA received intelligence about passengers distributing smuggled goods among themselves onboard the aircraft. Upon landing, the items were re-consolidated at the luggage belt and in restrooms. The goods—mainly phone screens—were later transferred to a waiting vehicle in the parking lot. However, as the recipient loaded the items into his car, a border control officer monitoring the activity from a distance intercepted him.
That bust led to the recovery of 3,175 phone screens, four MacBook Airs, and 20 assorted smartphones.
According to the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA), all imports, including phone screens, are subject to import duty, Value Added Tax (VAT) at 18%, Withholding Tax (WHT) at 6%, and an infrastructure levy of 1.5%.
Smuggling and concealment of goods violate Section 202 of the EACCMA and attract a penalty of 50% of the goods’ value. Failure to declare goods contravenes Sections 45 and 46, with penalties applied under Section 209.
URA has since intensified its passenger profiling methods and continues to collaborate with airport security, including CCTV monitoring teams, to identify and intercept smuggling operations in areas with limited customs presence, such as VIP lounges, the departures area, and the Old Airport terminal.
