UNBS Cracks Down on Substandard Cement in Luwero: Over 500 Bags Seized in Market Raid

Luwero, Uganda — In a decisive move to safeguard public safety and maintain building standards, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has seized over 500 bags of suspected substandard cement in Luwero District. The operation, which took place in Kasana Market and Kalongo Zone within Luwero Town Council, marks a major crackdown on unscrupulous traders endangering the lives of consumers through fake building materials.

The enforcement was triggered by intelligence received from the Officer in Charge of Luwero Police Station, leading the UNBS market surveillance team to target a hardware store suspected of engaging in illegal repackaging and adulteration of cement. At the center of the bust was Daudi Mutaasa,

the store owner, who is now facing legal action for allegedly being in possession of counterfeit and adulterated construction materials.

According to UNBS, initial investigations revealed that Mutaasa was in possession of empty branded bags belonging to reputable cement manufacturers Tororo Cement and Hima Cement. These bags were allegedly used to repackage a mixture of materials that included stone dust and lime, effectively diluting genuine cement to unsafe levels.

In a further twist, a box containing counterfeit Digital Comforty Mark (DCM) stickers—used to mislead customers about the authenticity and compliance of the product—was also recovered from the premises.

The presence of these fake DCM stickers is particularly concerning, as they are meant to assure consumers of product quality and standards compliance.

UNBS condemned the illegal activities, emphasizing the potential risk that substandard cement poses to buildings, infrastructure, and ultimately to human lives.

“This operation is part of our continuous efforts to rid the market of dangerous products that compromise quality and safety. We will not hesitate to take legal action against individuals and businesses involved in such criminal acts,” a UNBS spokesperson stated.

UNBS, established under the UNBS Act Cap 210, is the government body responsible for enforcing standards to protect public health, safety, and the environment. The bureau warned that any person found dealing in substandard or counterfeit products will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Mutaasa is expected to be arraigned in court and charged for his role in the illegal operation.

The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious products or traders dealing in substandard goods. Reports can be made through UNBS’s toll-free lines 0800133133 or 0800233233.

“This is a collective responsibility,” the bureau added. “We call on consumers, retailers, and manufacturers to work with us in ensuring that only safe and certified products are on the market.”

As investigations continue, UNBS reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and maintaining standards in Uganda’s construction sector.