Zombo Police Seize Suspected Sodium Cyanide in Raid, Probe Potential Illegal Export

By Mike Rwothomio 

ZOMBO: Police in Zombo  District On April 4, 2025, at 10:42 AM  conducted a targeted operation (SD 24/04/06/2025) at Bunya Stage, Jupanyondo West Cell, Nyibola Ward, Paidha Town Council, following intelligence reports of a stored toxic compound suspected to be sodium cyanide (NaCN), a highly hazardous chemical. 

Authorities believe the substance was intended for illicit transport to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

A coordinated team of detectives and uniformed officers, in the presence of the LC1 Chairman and the premises owner, executed a thorough search of the site. 

The operation yielded 15 small drums, each with a mass of 50 kilograms, containing the suspected sodium cyanide, a potent, water-soluble compound known for its acute toxicity and use in industrial processes like gold extraction, but also a controlled substance due to its lethal potential.

The recovered exhibits were securely transported and deposited at the Paidha  Police exhibit store for further analysis and safekeeping. 

The West Nile regional Police Spokesperson SP Collins Asea confirmed the incident in a statement, noting  an active investigation is underway to determine the origin, ownership, and intended use of the chemical, with updates to follow as the inquiry progresses.

Under Uganda’s export regulations, the movement of hazardous and illegal goods, including toxic chemicals like sodium cyanide, is strictly prohibited without proper authorization.

 The Uganda Revenue Authority and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) enforce stringent controls to prevent the unlawful export of such substances, with violators facing severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, to protect public safety and regional security.