A joint operation by the Internal Security Organization (ISO) and the Uganda Police Force has dismantled a significant cement adulteration operation in Tororo district, resulting in the seizure of over 700 bags of counterfeit cement and the arrest of five suspects.
The raid, conducted at two storage facilities in TICAF Cell, Osukuru Town Council, followed intelligence reports indicating a sophisticated scheme. Investigators discovered that fine dust from Busoga was being transported to Tororo and mixed with genuine Tororo Cement, effectively diluting the product. Reports suggest that 50 kilograms of authentic cement were being combined with 500 kilograms of dust, then distributed across Tororo, Northern and Central Uganda, and even into the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A critical turn in the investigation occurred when allegations surfaced regarding the involvement of security personnel. To ensure impartiality, Milton Birungi, the Criminal Investigations Officer for the Elgon Police Region, was brought in to lead the inquiry. A senior security operative, speaking anonymously, alleged that the illicit trade had flourished for years due to the complicity of key district officials. The source further claimed that senior security officers and district leaders were receiving monthly “tokens” of UGX 400,000 and 200 liters of fuel to allow the operation to continue.
Tororo Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajji Sadiq Bategana, who participated in the operation, vehemently condemned the practice, warning of its potential to damage Uganda’s reputation in the foreign market for Tororo Cement. He also raised concerns about the possible link between counterfeit cement and the increasing number of building collapses in the country, urging an immediate halt to the illegal activity.
The five arrested suspects, Swaib Semakula, Henry Senfuka, Sayyid Rashid, Joseph Wabale, and Frank Ainebyona, were all employees at the adulteration site. This marks the second security operation at the same location within a year, indicating a persistent problem. Authorities believe additional adulteration centers may be operating along Mile 5 and Mile 8 on Mbale Road. The seized cement is now held at Tororo Central Police Station as investigations continue.