Uganda Revenue Authority recovers 80 smuggled used computers in pre-dawn Malaba operation
The operation, conducted by the Malaba Enforcement Team, targeted a group of smugglers who were allegedly using illegal routes, commonly known as panya routes, to transport goods from Kenya into Uganda.
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement officers have recovered 80 smuggled used computer monitors following an intelligence-led operation at the Malaba border.
The operation, conducted by the Malaba Enforcement Team, targeted a group of smugglers who were allegedly using illegal routes, commonly known as panya routes, to transport goods from Kenya into Uganda.
According to URA officials, intelligence received on the night of July 31, 2026 indicated that five motorcyclists planned to move a consignment of used computers through the Nile B panya route at around 3:00 a.m.
Officers deployed along the suspected route intercepted the lead rider, prompting the other four motorcyclists to turn back and return the consignment to a nearby storage facility.
A follow-up operation was later carried out on August 1, 2026 after fresh intelligence revealed the location where the computers had been hidden. Enforcement officers raided the premises and recovered the concealed items.
Verification showed that the recovered consignment contained 80 used computer monitors suspected to have been smuggled into Uganda.
URA said the importation of used laptops into Uganda is prohibited under the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACMA), making attempts to bring such goods into the country illegally a breach of customs laws.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to fighting smuggling, warning that illegal traders cannot rely on nighttime operations to evade enforcement.
