Adjumani, Uganda – May 27, 2025
Adjumani town was plunged into chaos on Monday afternoon as a joint enforcement operation by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) turned violent, clashing with suspected fuel smugglers in a dramatic confrontation that left parts of the town deserted.
According to eyewitnesses, the heavy exchange of gunfire and teargas lasted for nearly 30 minutes, sending residents into panic as they scrambled for safety. Manyi Road, one of the town’s busiest streets, fell eerily silent as businesses shut down and pedestrians fled the area.
The skirmish reportedly began when URA enforcement officers attempted to intercept a suspected consignment of smuggled fuel entering the country through illegal routes near the South Sudan border. Resistance from the alleged smugglers escalated into a violent standoff.
"I was in my shop when I heard gunshots. Teargas followed, and people were running everywhere. I had to lock up and hide," said one trader in Adjumani market.
While no official statement had been issued by URA at the time of filing this report, local security sources confirmed that several suspects had been apprehended and are currently in custody pending investigations.
There were no immediate reports of fatalities, but several individuals were treated for minor injuries and the effects of teargas at nearby clinics.
Security has since been beefed up in Adjumani town, with patrols maintaining presence to prevent further disturbances. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue into the smuggling ring believed to be operating across the Uganda–South Sudan border.
More updates to follow.
