UNBS warns against extortion scam targeting business community
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has cautioned the business community about an ongoing extortion scheme perpetrated by individuals impersonating UNBS staff.
The impostors have been preying on unsuspecting entrepreneurs, claiming to possess the ability to manipulate laboratory test results in favour of their clients and expedite the acquisition of the UNBS Quality Mark (Q).
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The UNBS, responsible for ensuring quality standards and certifications in Uganda, revealed that investigations into the matter are currently underway.
Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects utilize two telephone numbers to carry out their illicit activities.
The numbers in question are +256 786 462 376 registered under the name of Gertrude Kabonesa and +256 785 611 481 registered as Julius Mboode.
The bureau, determined to distance itself from such fraudulent acts, wants the public to be aware of the modus operandi of these impostors.
The scammers contact clients, demanding money in exchange for altered laboratory test results and promises of expedited product certifications.
UNBS emphasizes that all payments for testing and certification services should be made exclusively to the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) account, and no physical exchange of cash should occur between UNBS clients and staff.
Corruption remains a grave concern for UNBS, and the organization is collaborating closely with relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for this extortion scheme are apprehended and brought to justice.
UNBS urges the public to report any suspicious or extortionate activities to their toll-free line at 0800133133/0800233233 or via WhatsApp at 0713227580.
The bureau's zero-tolerance policy towards corruption underscores its commitment to upholding integrity and safeguarding the interests of the business community.
UNBS reassures its clients and stakeholders that it will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and transparency in its operations.
