Timber export fraudsters warned by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) in a tough new stance against illegal unprocessed wood exports. The warning follows increased incidents of forged documentation and fraudulent clearance of restricted timber destined for South Sudan.
In November 2024, URA impounded several trucks carrying unprocessed timber. The goods were allegedly in transit from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but the customs paperwork turned out to be forged.
Inside the Timber Fraud Scheme
Investigations revealed a coordinated network involving truck owners, clearing agents, and customs officers. These individuals colluded to move timber illegally across Uganda’s borders. They forged DRC customs documents to disguise Ugandan timber as in-transit goods from Congo.
Worse still, some URA staff cleared the goods without inspecting the trucks. They falsely claimed that the shipments had entered through ungazetted border points with proper documents. According to customs law, clearance from unauthorized entry points is strictly prohibited.
There was also rampant misuse of TINs (Tax Identification Numbers). Clearing agents shared logins and passwords with unauthorized individuals. This made it difficult to trace the actual culprits involved in the fraud.
Border Police and Records Tampering
Police officers stationed at border points like Elegu and Vurra confirmed they never saw the trucks. The vehicles were not recorded in the official barrier register.
However, URA customs staff involved in the scheme introduced an unofficial register. They instructed police to enter truck T1 forms into this separate log after the fact. This move followed a red flag raised by the Integrity Compliance and Ethics Division, suggesting an effort to cover up the irregularity.
Elegu and Vurra Named as High-Risk Points
The two main locations affected are Elegu and Vurra border posts. These points have become hotspots for timber smuggling, with evidence of repeated violations and weak control systems.
Officials say unprocessed timber is a restricted export under Executive Order PO/03, issued by the President on 21 June 2023. The order aims to curb deforestation and protect Uganda’s natural resources.
URA Sends Strong Message to Offenders
Mr. Denis Kugonza Kateeba, the Commissioner of the URA Tax Investigations Department, issued a firm warning to those involved.
“Licenses of any clearing firm involved in such fraud schemes will be revoked once investigations confirm their role. We urge the clearing fraternity and wider business community to work with URA to fight this vice.”
He stressed that URA will hold all implicated staff accountable. Customs officers who facilitated the clearance of illegal timber will face consequences.
Continuous Education and Prevention
URA will launch regular training and awareness campaigns. These efforts will target truck drivers, clearing agents, and timber dealers.
Through these sessions, participants will learn:
- The dangers and penalties of customs fraud
- How to follow legitimate clearance procedures
- Their rights and obligations as taxpayers
The objective is to build a stronger compliance culture and prevent future violations.
The public warning to timber export fraudsters highlights URA’s commitment to fighting illegal trade. As Uganda works to protect its forests and enforce revenue laws, everyone in the export chain must play their part.
Border control will tighten at Elegu and Vurra. Investigations are ongoing, and URA pledges to expose all those involved in fraud.
URA’s message is clear: fraudulent customs activity will not be tolerated, and both private players and staff will face action.
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