Two suspected smugglers with goods valued at $176,000 (over Rwf240 million) were arrested by law enforcement agents on November 14. Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), in collaboration with Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and Rwanda National Police, arrested a driver called Marc Kagabo, and Maurice Bizimana, the owner of goods, as they smuggled the goods into the country, officials said. ALSO READ: Detectives pounce on fake liquor distillery in Kigali, 10 arrested According to RRA valuation, these goods were supposed to generate up to Rwf77 million in tax revenue. RIB Spokesperson Thierry Murangira on Friday, November 29, told reporters that the suspects are under investigation for two crimes: smuggling and complicity. “Kagabo Marc was supposed to deliver a legitimate shipment of charcoal into the country but concealed inside smuggled car parts, cosmetics products and women's shoes. His attempt failed. And anyone else who tries will meet the same fate, as measures have been put in place,” Murangira said. After their arrest, further investigations led to the discovery of additional concealed goods at a residence. Their case was forwarded to the Prosecution. According to the EAC Customs Management Act, 2004, if convicted, smugglers face up to five years in prison or a fine of 50% of the smuggled goods' value—or both. “No one is unaware of the benefits of taxes. If we have good roads, hospitals, and schools, it's all because of taxes. Smugglers hinder the country's development. Moreover, while someone may smuggle once, they will be caught on the second attempt. The resources and cooperation with citizens are in place to ensure this,” Murangira emphasized. The RRA Assistant Commissioner for Taxpayer Services and Communication, Jean Paulin Uwitonze, said that seizing smuggled goods is part of routine anti-smuggling operations conducted in partnership with various institutions, and it will continue. He noted that smuggling undermines national development, and is like cutting the branch you are sitting on. “It is possible to make profits legally. Many traders operate properly and make profit. The first thing we encourage traders to do is avoid smuggling. Secondly, report smugglers. Those who import goods legitimately cannot compete fairly with smugglers. Sharing information will help create a level playing field, allowing all traders to prosper honestly,” he added. As the holiday season approaches, Uwitonze called for vigilance against smuggled alcoholic beverages due to their health risks, including blindness and death. He urged people to scan the QR code on tax stamps to verify authenticity before purchasing. ALSO READ: Police busts smuggling racket, recovers high value alcoholic beverages For reporting, he encouraged the public to call RRA’s toll-free number 3005 or report via social media. Police Spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga highlighted the role of law enforcement in combating activities that threaten national security. “Smuggling not only undermines the economy but also harms legitimate traders who comply with regulations. Such traders need protection,” he stated. He raised concerns over the health risks of certain smuggled items, including banned skin-lightening creams and counterfeit alcohol, which can cause severe health issues like blindness and kidney damage. Rutinga denounced people who undermine Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs), often using media to spread misinformation about it. “Some claim EBMs are ineffective, but evidence proves otherwise. We will not tolerate those who try to use the media to justify their illegal actions,” he added. He also warned against attempts to bribe or intimidate law enforcement. “Respecting the law is paramount. Those caught engaging in malpractice and expecting leniency are mistaken,” he added. If seized goods are deemed legitimate, they are taxed, and the owner is fined as well as potential imprisonment imposed. Legitimate goods abandoned by their owners may be auctioned, while prohibited items are destroyed.
