Police in Kitagwenda District, in coordination with officials from the National Drug Authority National Drug Authority, are investigating a suspected illegal veterinary drug manufacturing and distribution operation in the district following a seizure of materials linked to counterfeit acaricide production.
According to Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the investigation began after the arrest of a boda boda rider identified as Amos Turyaguma in Ibanda District.
He was allegedly found transporting four sacks containing forty (40) 5-litre jerricans of a green liquid suspected to be counterfeit acaricide.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect allegedly said the products belonged to Julius Tayebwa, a resident of Kitagwenda District, who is now suspected of operating an illegal makeshift manufacturing site.
On Saturday, June 20, 2026, a joint team of officials from the National Drug Authority and police in Kitagwenda conducted a search at the suspect’s premises 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.
Investigators said the premises were located in an isolated area, with some of the recovered items allegedly hidden under beds and within the ceiling, suggesting attempts to conceal the operation.
The prime suspect is currently on the run, with police saying efforts are underway to trace and arrest him, along with any possible accomplices linked to the operation.
“The investigation commenced following the arrest of a boda boda rider in Ibanda District who was found transporting a substance suspected to be counterfeit acaricide. Information obtained during preliminary interrogation led investigators to the premises in Rwentuha Village,” Rusoke said.
He added, “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.”
Authorities have urged members of the public with information about illegal drug manufacturing or suspected counterfeit acaricides to report to the nearest police station or National Drug Authority office.
Investigations into the suspected illegal veterinary drug manufacturing and distribution operation are ongoing.
