Written By | Peter Luzinda
URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki described Katusiime’s action as heroic and applauded her high level of integrity and courage
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Kampala
A vigilant Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) customs officer has been recognised and rewarded for her exceptional integrity after discovering $10.2 million (approximately Shs 38 billion) in undeclared cash hidden in a shipping container — and firmly rejecting a bribe to keep silent.
Enid Priscilla Katusiime, a customs officer, made the discovery during a routine verification of a container declared as containing personal effects belonging to a Ugandan returning from Turkey.
Katusiime recounted the dramatic moment: “I opened one box and it had kitchenware, but upon opening the next one, I saw paper money stacked inside.” The cash was concealed in four boxes loaded among household items.
She revealed that immediately after the discovery, a clearing agent attempted to bribe her, saying: “I saw the money and they told me that it’s your time to get rich, don’t report us.” The agent allegedly offered her Shs 500 million (other reports mention Shs 300 million) if she agreed not to escalate the matter.
Katusiime stood firm, declaring that as a born-again Christian, she could not sin by accepting the bribe. She proceeded to report the concealment, leading to the full recovery of the $10.2 million.
URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki described Katusiime’s action as heroic and applauded her high level of integrity and courage. He presented her with a cash award of Shs 50 million and promoted her in recognition of her exemplary conduct.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Musinguzi said her decision was a shining example to all URA staff and a testament to the institution’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.
“This kind of integrity is exactly what we expect from our officers as we work to mobilise revenue for national development in a transparent and efficient manner,” the URA boss stated.
The incident has sparked mixed reactions online, with some Ugandans expressing admiration for Katusiime’s honesty while others have questioned the circumstances surrounding such a large amount of cash being transported undeclared in a personal effects container.
The recovered money remains under URA custody as investigations into the owner of the container and possible money laundering or tax evasion continue.
Katusiime’s story has been hailed internally at URA as a powerful reminder that honesty and professionalism can be rewarded, even in the face of tempting offers.
This development comes at a time when the revenue authority continues to intensify efforts against smuggling, under-declaration, and corruption within the customs system.
Torch Media Africa
