By Diana Wenwa
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), the National Drug Regulatory Authority within the Ministry of Health, has uncovered a sophisticated network responsible for the theft and illegal distribution of government medical supplies in Kajiado County.
This operation, conducted in collaboration with the National Police Service on May 13, targeted unlicensed entities dispensing medications, leading to several arrests and the confiscation of stolen medicine.
The hunt for unlicensed entities was initiated following reports of medicine shortages in public healthcare facilities.
These shortages prompted a deeper inquiry and research, uncovering individuals engaged in the theft and illegal distribution of medicines.
The pharmaceuticals stolen were discovered in unlicensed chemists, posing significant health risks to the public.
In addition to this targeted operation, the PPB’s routine enforcement and surveillance efforts have led to the seizure of 150 cartons of assorted health products and technologies.
As a result, 35 offenders have been arrested, and 50 premises have been shut down for regulatory violations.
Julius Kaluai, speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Office of the PPB stated that the discovery of the syndicate highlighted the urgent need for stringent enforcement of pharmaceutical regulations in the country.
The CEO also emphasized that those found guilty of participating in the illegal network will face stringent penalties under the penal code and other applicable laws. The pharmaceuticals confiscated will act as evidence during the prosecution.
The PPB has published a list of registered pharmaceutical outlets on its website, advising the public to purchase medicines only from licensed and reputable sources.
“The public should be cautious of chemists operating without names and unregistered medicines, which may not meet regulatory standards and could pose health risks,” CEO Kaluai warned.
Furthermore, the PPB has reminded healthcare facilities to apply online for the disposal of pharmaceutical waste or contact PPB regional officers.
Registered pharmaceutical practitioners are urged to stay updated with regulatory provisions and comply with labelling requirements as documented under the Pharmacy and Poisons Act [CAP 244].