Overview:
The items were discovered during a routine baggage scan using Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology, which allows customs officers to detect suspicious or concealed items without unpacking luggage.
BUSIA: Advanced scanning technology has once again helped Ugandan authorities intercept illegal imports at the border.
A 25-year-old Sudanese national, Datrio David Baba Jeremiah, was caught attempting to smuggle 59 pieces of military uniforms into Uganda through the Busia One Stop Border Post early Tuesday morning.
The items were discovered during a routine baggage scan using Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology, which allows customs officers to detect suspicious or concealed items without unpacking luggage.
“The NII system flagged unusual items in the suspect’s luggage,” said David Mugarra, URA Customs Supervisor. “Further image analysis and a physical inspection revealed clothing resembling military uniforms, prompting immediate interception.”
Jeremiah, who was traveling on a Bebeto Coaches bus from Kenya at around 3:00 a.m., was immediately handed over to the Border Internal Security team for further investigation.
Military uniforms are considered security-sensitive items in Uganda and require clearance from the Ministries of Security and Defence before they can be transported across borders. Authorities said smuggling such items poses serious national security risks.
The interception underscores the importance of NII scanners in safeguarding Uganda’s borders. URA officials noted that the technology not only improves revenue collection but also strengthens national security by detecting undeclared or restricted items before they enter the country.
“NII technology has become a critical tool in our efforts to enforce customs compliance and protect Ugandans,” Mugarra said.
With over 20 border posts equipped with such high-tech scanners, URA continues to collaborate with security agencies to ensure the smooth flow of goods while preventing smuggling and other illicit activities.