Police Hunt for Suspect Accused of Mixing Beans With Used Engine Oil in Lira City.

By Hillary Opio Omara

LIRA CITY - Police in Lira City have launched a hunt for a suspected trader accused of allegedly mixing beans with used engine oil before selling them to members of the public.

The suspect,identified as Sadrick,reportedly fled from the area after local leaders and law enforcement officers moved to apprehend him on Tuesday,September 8, 2026.

The operation was launched by leaders from Produce Line and Bazaar Ward following reports that beans were allegedly being mixed with used engine oil,commonly known as band oil,before being sold.

According to Bazaar Ward Councillor Pillar Ocen,leaders received information on the evening of September 7, 2026,alleging that Sadrick was involved in mixing beans with used engine oil.

Ocen said the allegations were particularly alarming because the beans were reportedly being supplied to schools,potentially putting the health of children at risk.

He warned school administrators and members of the public against purchasing suspiciously cheap beans and called for increased vigilance among food consumers. Ocen also criticised some leaders in Produce Line,accusing them of failing to take decisive action against traders suspected of engaging in the practice.

Bazaar Ward LC2 Chairperson Kasule Hendry said the suspected traders were allegedly selling the beans at Shs2,500 per kilogram,compared to the market price of Shs3,500 and above for genuine beans.

According to Kasule,the suspects allegedly mixed the beans with used engine oil to alter their appearance and attract unsuspecting customers. 

Meanwhile,Produce Line Chairperson Tom Etuku said this was not the first operation involving beans suspected of being treated with used engine oil. He said that on September 7, 2026,local leaders intercepted a truck carrying suspected beans and stopped the consignment from being sold.

Police in Lira City,together with law enforcement officers,seized the suspected beans as investigations continued.

The suspect,however,remains at large,and police are hunting for him to assist with ongoing investigations into the alleged sale of adulterated food products.

 The incident has sparked concern among residents and local leaders,who have called for thorough investigations and tougher action against anyone found responsible for endangering the health of consumers.