URA Officials Ambushed, Car Set Ablaze, One Dead in Stray Bullet Incident

Manafwa District, Uganda –  A Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement operation turned deadly this last evening when suspected smugglers ambushed officials, setting their vehicle on fire, while a stray bullet allegedly killed a 30-year-old man during the ensuing chaos.  

The incident occurred at Buwasibi Cell, Bunabwana Ward, Bunyinya Town Council, where URA officials had intercepted suspected smugglers transporting contraband goods. According to preliminary reports, as the officials attempted to apprehend the suspects, a violent mob attacked them, assaulting the officers and torching their Toyota Vitz (Reg. No.. UA 902AQ).  
 
A call for backup was made, and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers responded to the scene. To disperse the violent crowd, the officers reportedly fired warning shots into the air. Tragically, a stray bullet struck and fatally wounded Mukoni Brian, a 30-year-old peasant from  Butingu Village, Bumusomi Parish, Nabitsikhi Sub-County. He was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.  

Rogers Taitika, the  Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, stating that inquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack and the shooting.  

"We regret the loss of life and are investigating how the stray bullet hit the deceased. The URA officials were carrying out their lawful duties when they were attacked. We urge the public to remain calm as we establish the facts," Taitika said.  

The Manafwa District area, bordering Kenya, has long been a hotspot for smuggling. The most trafficked items include wheat flour, soap, and cooking oil. These goods are smuggled from Kenya to evade taxes, leading to frequent clashes between traders and revenue enforcement teams.  

Two URA officials and two other victims were rushed to the hospital for treatment, while Mukoni Brian’s body was taken to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem examination. Authorities have vowed to intensify operations against smugglers while calling for restraint to prevent further bloodshed.