URA Cracks Down on Tax Evasion: Three Clearing Agents Remanded
According to URA spokespersons, the authority has intensified audits and enforcement operations targeting businesses and individuals exploiting loopholes in the tax system. "Fraudulent manipulation of the Customs Asycuda System not only affects revenue collection but also distorts fair trade. The URA remains vigilant and will continue to pursue offenders to ensure compliance," stated Counsel Aheebwa.
In a concerted effort to curb tax fraud and enhance revenue collection, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has intensified its crackdown on individuals engaged in fraudulent tax evasion schemes. This move has seen three clearing agents arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court on charges of fraudulent evasion of payment of duty, contrary to Section 203(e) of the East African Community Customs Management Act, 2004.
The accused individuals, Basanga Laaza Godfrey, Aneno Juliet, and Luminsa Peter, are alleged to have manipulated the URA’s Customs Asycuda System to falsely reflect a payment as completed, thereby evading taxes amounting to UGX 83,097,801. The fraudulent transaction, reportedly conducted in March 2025, involved PRN (Payment Registration Number) 6250011933886 for entry number C4020.
The suspects appeared before Principal Magistrate Grade One, Mujuni Paul, at the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court on April 4, 2025. URA was represented by Counsel Stuart Aheebwa, who outlined the nature of the charges and the extent of the tax fraud committed. The prosecution emphasized the need for stringent action against tax evasion to deter similar offenses and safeguard national revenue.
During the court session, the lawyer representing the first accused, Basanga Laaza Godfrey,
applied for bail. However, the application was unsuccessful as his sureties, Samuel Ssuna Were and Waswa Joseph, both from Kikuubo business area, lacked the necessary documentation to secure his release.
The second accused, Aneno Juliet, and the third accused, Luminsa Peter, had no legal representation at the hearing. The magistrate, therefore, remanded Basanga and Luminsa to Luzira Murchison Bay Prison, while Aneno was sent to Luzira Women’s Prison. The case was adjourned to April 10, 2025, for further proceedings.
The URA has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling tax evasion, which significantly undermines government revenue collection efforts. The agency has been leveraging technology and intelligence-led investigations to identify and prosecute individuals involved in tax fraud.
According to URA spokespersons, the authority has intensified audits and enforcement operations targeting businesses and individuals exploiting loopholes in the tax system. "Fraudulent manipulation of the Customs Asycuda System not only affects revenue collection but also distorts fair trade. The URA remains vigilant and will continue to pursue offenders to ensure compliance," stated Counsel Aheebwa.
Tax evasion remains a significant challenge in Uganda, affecting service delivery and economic development. The URA's latest crackdown serves as a warning to individuals and businesses engaged in fraudulent practices. The authority has called upon the public to report any suspicious tax-related activities to help combat revenue leakage.
As the case against Basanga Laaza Godfrey, Aneno Juliet, and Luminsa Peter unfolds, stakeholders in the clearing and forwarding industry are urged to uphold ethical practices and comply with tax regulations. The upcoming court session on April 10, 2025, is expected to determine the next course of action, setting a precedent for similar cases in the future.
With the URA’s relentless enforcement, Uganda moves closer to achieving greater tax compliance, ensuring that every citizen and business contributes fairly to the nation’s development.
