Four Tonnes of Fake Cement Factory Busted in Tororo

On Wednesday evening, authorities in Tororo district intercepted a significant operation involving the production and sale of counterfeit cement. During a coordinated effort by the police, Uganda Revenue Authority, and the Resident District Commissioner’s office, over four tonnes of fake cement were seized.

The counterfeit cement was discovered in Akapa trading center, about five kilometers from Tororo town along the Tororo-Jinja highway. The cement, which was composed of limestone, sand, and clay, was packaged in bags bearing the logos of reputable brands such as Simba Cement, Tororo Cement, and Hima Cement. The counterfeiters had even replicated digital stamps to imitate genuine products.

The operation led to the impounding of a truck with registration number UAU 342W and the arrest of the driver, Mathew Wandera Othieno. Mr. Albert Amula, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Tororo, who led the operation, stated that the success of the bust was due to intelligence from reliable sources. He expressed optimism that the detained driver would assist in identifying the main culprits behind the counterfeit cement trade.

Amula emphasized the need for further investigation into the primary actors involved and the sources of the counterfeit packaging materials. He pointed out that the adulterated cement is being sold to unsuspecting customers at prices between 26,000 and 28,000 shillings. Often, accomplices collaborate with construction site managers to dilute legitimate cement and sell the surplus at reduced prices.

Amula urged contractors to purchase building materials only from licensed hardware stores to avoid the risks associated with substandard products, which can lead to building collapses. Cement manufacturers in the region have also called for stricter regulations to curb the illegal trade.

A construction site manager, who chose to remain anonymous, criticized the legal system for its handling of the issue. The manager noted that despite arrests, perpetrators are frequently released without facing substantial consequences, highlighting ongoing frustrations with law enforcement and legal loopholes.

Summary of Operation Details

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