news 2 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Two Arrested in Lira for Manufacturing Toxic 'Cheap Liquor'
Lira City security forces have arrested two individuals suspected of producing and distributing dangerously potent low-cost alcoholic beverages. The operation uncovered an illegal manufacturing site with significant quantities of chemicals and illicit brew. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/two-arrested-over-making-toxic-cheap-liquor-in-lira-5580604
Authorities in Lira City have apprehended two suspects believed to be involved in the illicit production and sale of toxic, low-cost alcoholic drinks. The arrests were made during an operation on August 30 in Jinja Camp, Lira City West Division, following mounting concerns over the proliferation of these dangerous beverages.
The Lira City Security Committee has been warning about the surge in mental health cases linked to these cheap spirits, often sold for as little as Shs1,000. The local hospital’s psychiatric department has reported an immense burden due to consumption of these brews.
Investigations revealed a dangerous discrepancy between labelled and actual alcohol content. Assistant Resident City Commissioner Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele stated that products advertised as 12 percent alcohol can contain up to 60 percent industrial spirit. He explained that instead of normal fermentation, manufacturers often mix industrial spirit with non-fermented wine, deceiving consumers and leading to rapid intoxication and potentially fatal outcomes.
During the raid, officials discovered an illegal production facility where unidentified chemicals were allegedly mixed with water and packaged as ‘Iguli Mogo Amoga.’ This drink has been linked to numerous deaths, particularly among young people. Authorities seized over 140 litres of chemicals, 200 jerrycans of suspected illicit brew, and 10 large drums awaiting packaging.
One suspect indicated a substantial investment, claiming the chemicals were purchased for Shs37 million. Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole stressed the danger this trade poses to unsuspecting youth and urged the public to avoid unlabelled or unverified alcoholic products. Operations are being intensified across the Lango Sub-region.
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has been engaged to analyze the seized chemicals. The suspects are currently detained at Lira City West Central Police Station as investigations into the production and distribution network continue.