As the financial year came to a close, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)’s Enforcement and Border Control team was on high alert—and their vigilance paid off. In a daring attempt to sneak contraband past security at Entebbe International Airport, a group of smugglers tried using fashion to hide mobile phones on their bodies. But the plan failed.
The smugglers had custom-tailored clothing designed to conceal items. Some wore corsets, others used jackets with hidden compartments. Even elderly women were caught wearing garters, and leggings with secret pockets became a common tool. One officer described the airport as looking like a “runway collection” of smuggling fashion.
But the Enforcement team was not fooled.
One woman was caught with 32 brand new Samsung phones strapped tightly around her body—wrapped on her torso and thighs like a second skin. Another person’s fake BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) was nothing more than a padded backside hiding 24 more phones.
Several Eritrean and Sudanese nationals were also stopped in the operation. One Eritrean man caught officers’ attention because of a strange “humpback” that didn’t match his movement. Upon inspection, it turned out he was wearing a corset packed with 23 Samsung A23 phones neatly strapped to his chest.
In total, 427 assorted mobile phones worth around $35,000 were intercepted during this bold smuggling attempt.
URA says the offence management process is ongoing and reminded the public that no amount of disguise will beat their trained eye and strong systems.
As URA Enforcement continues to strengthen border protection, one thing is clear: while smuggling may get creative, enforcement is always ready to adapt and respond.
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