URA Seizes Over 70 Cartons of Illegal Skin-Lightening Cosmetics in Border Crackdown

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Customs Enforcement team in Mpondwe has seized more than 70 cartons of illegal skin-lightening cosmetic products during a major operation in Kabilizi Town, Kyondo Sub-county, Bukonjo West.

The three-day enforcement exercise was launched following intelligence reports that smugglers were exploiting the porous border areas to move unregulated products into the country.

According to URA, investigations revealed that the cosmetics were being transported to a suspected storage and consolidation facility in Kabilizi Town. The location was allegedly being used as a temporary holding point before the products were distributed to different markets across the region.

During the operation, customs officers monitored activities at the premises and observed what they described as suspicious movements linked to the receipt, storage, and redistribution of smuggled goods.

After gathering sufficient evidence, the enforcement team moved in, cordoned off the premises, and conducted a search that led to the recovery of more than 70 cartons of illicit skin-lightening cosmetics.

The seized products included 18 cartons of Clairmen Cream, 15 cartons of Cocopulp Cream, and 37 cartons of Carolight Cream.

Robert Isabirye, the Supervisor for Enforcement in the Midwestern Region, commended the customs officers for their commitment and vigilance in combating the smuggling of unregulated cosmetic products.

He noted that such products not only threaten public health but also undermine legitimate businesses that comply with tax and regulatory requirements.

URA said the confiscated cosmetics have been secured as investigations continue. Authorities are now working to identify and apprehend individuals believed to be part of the smuggling network behind the illegal trade.