Gunfire and tear gas rocked Kampala City on Wednesday as police and army personnel dispersed traders protesting the government’s decision to impose a new tax on goods sold by weight.
The traders, who have kept their shops closed for several days, took to the streets to oppose the policy that would see them taxed for every kilogram of goods sold. Tensions flared when some traders attempted to reopen their shops, sparking clashes with colleagues who accused them of betraying the strike.
“We can’t pay this tax; it’s unfair to charge us per kilogram,” one of the protesting traders shouted.
“Those who want to reopen are betraying us—we must stand together,” another trader added.
The standoff quickly escalated as angry demonstrators confronted shop owners and hawkers who had resumed business. Within minutes, police and military officers were deployed in large numbers to restore order.
Security forces fired tear gas and live bullets in the air to disperse the crowd, sending traders scattering through city streets as patrols intensified around key business centers.
Police later confirmed the arrest of 13 people believed to have been involved in the violent protest.
“We have arrested 13 suspects who are being held at various police stations. Investigations into their involvement in the violent demonstration are ongoing,” a police source said.
By the time of filing this report, calm had returned to the city, though heavy police and military patrols remained in place to prevent further unrest.