Two Arrested as NEMA Probes Oil Buster Industries Ltd for Environmental Violations

Two individuals have been arrested to aid investigations into Oil Buster Industries Ltd, a used oil refining facility located in Bumbajja Village, Kiyoola Parish, Nakisunga Sub-county, Mukono District, which has been found in breach of environmental regulations.

According to Mr. William Lubuulwa, Senior Public Relations Officer at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the authority dispatched a team of inspectors to the facility following public outcry and media reports published on Wednesday.

“The inspection confirmed potential violations of environmental standards, including improper handling and disposal of oil waste, visible oil spills within the premises, and the lack of a functioning effluent treatment system,” said Mr. Lubuulwa.

He further revealed that there is evidence suggesting that oil waste was dumped and set on fire on private land approximately one kilometre from the facility, posing serious risks to surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Mr. William Lubuulwa, Senior Public Relations Officer at NEMA

Mr. Lubuulwa assured the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the environmental damage. The findings will inform the next course of action, including possible enforcement measures against the facility.

“NEMA wishes to clarify that this is part of a broader fact-finding process to guide appropriate regulatory action. We remain committed to enforcing environmental laws and ensuring that all facilities operate within approved standards to protect public health and the environment,” he emphasized.

The probe is being conducted within the framework of the National Environment Act, Cap. 181, which provides a robust legal basis for managing oil spills and other forms of pollution in Uganda. Under the Act, polluters are held accountable and face penalties ranging from UGX 3 million to UGX 6 billion, or imprisonment, depending on the gravity of the offence.