Police in Kitagwenda District, in coordination with officials from the National Drug Authority (NDA), are investigating a suspected illegal veterinary drug manufacturing and distribution operation in Kitagwenda District.
The investigation commenced following the arrest of a boda boda rider, identified as Turyaguma Amos, in Ibanda District. He was found transporting four sacks containing forty (40) 5-litre jerricans of a green liquid suspected to be counterfeit acaricide.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect alleged that the products belonged to Tayebwa Julius, a resident of Kitagwenda District, who is suspected to be operating an illegal makeshift manufacturing site.
On 20 June 2026, a joint team comprising NDA officials and Police from Kitagwenda conducted a search at the suspect’s premises located in Rwentuha Village. The operation led to the recovery of suspected chemical powders, plastic packaging materials, labelling stickers, white crystalline substances, and empty drums believed to have been used in the production process.
Preliminary findings indicate that the premises were located in an isolated area, and the recovered items had been concealed under beds and within the ceiling in an apparent attempt to avoid detection.
The prime suspect is currently on the run, and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend him together with any possible accomplices.
Police and the National Drug Authority strongly advise farmers and members of the public to purchase veterinary drugs only from licensed and authorised outlets and to avoid unlabelled, suspicious, or unusually packaged products.
Anyone with information regarding illegal drug manufacturing or the sale of suspected counterfeit acaricides is encouraged to report to the nearest Police station or NDA office.
ACP Kituuma Rusoke psc.
PRO-UPF
