Arua City, Uganda – Chaos and fear gripped Arua City today after a broad daylight shootout between Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) security personnel and suspected smugglers ended in tragedy near Equity Bank in the Tanganyika area.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunfire erupted shortly after URA enforcement officers intercepted a truck believed to be transporting illicit cigarettes. The tension escalated quickly as the security team moved in to impound the truck, leading to a violent altercation.
In the melee, one man—allegedly part of the smuggling ring—was fatally shot by URA operatives. Witnesses likened the scene to a high-octane movie, as panicked pedestrians fled for safety and nearby businesses hurriedly closed their doors.
The deceased’s relatives and associates, visibly distraught, began following the URA convoy, shouting threats and promising retaliation. The situation remains tense, with a heavy police presence deployed to restore calm and deter any further unrest.
Local leaders have called for restraint as investigations continue. “This is a tragic situation. We urge residents to stay calm and allow authorities to carry out their work,” one official stated.
Residents of Arua are still reeling from the shock. Shops remain shuttered and the usually busy Tanganyika stretch lies quiet as security forces maintain vigilance in the area.
URA and local police are yet to issue an official statement, but sources indicate a full investigation is underway to determine the circumstances leading to the deadly confrontation.
This is a developing story. More details will be shared as they emerge.
