Kajiado: Poisons board exposes law-breaking medicine distribution network
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has exposed a network said to be involved in the distribution of illegal drugs in Kajiado.
PPB, which is a National Drug Regulatory Authority within the Ministry of Health, conducted an operation that was executed in collaboration with the police and targeted joints dispensing medications without the necessary licenses.
According to the board, the investigation was launched following reports of medicine shortages in public healthcare facilities.
“The inquiry uncovered individuals engaged in the theft and illegal distribution of essential medicines. These stolen pharmaceuticals were found by unlicensed chemists, posing serious health risks to the public.
“Several individuals have been arrested, and the confiscated medicines will serve as evidence in prosecution. Those found guilty will face stringent penalties under the penal code and other applicable laws.
“In addition to this operation, the board’s routine enforcement and surveillance efforts have resulted in the seizure of 150 cartons of assorted health products and technologies. Thirty-five (35) offenders have been arrested, and 50 premises have been shut down for regulatory violations,” PPB said in a statement on X.
The Chief Executive Office of PPB, Julius Kaluai, said the expose calls for urgent, stringent measures to curb such a network.
“The discovery of this syndicate highlights the urgent need for stringent enforcement of pharmaceutical regulations.
“Those found guilty will face severe penalties under the penal code and other applicable laws.
“Our ongoing efforts are crucial to safeguarding public health. We have released a list of registered pharmaceutical outlets on our website and advise the public to purchase medicines only from licensed and reputable sources,” Kaluai said.
Health risk
According to the PPB boss, unlicensed drug joints pose a risk to the public and encourage citizens to expose questionable pharmaceutical entities.
“The public should be cautious of chemists operating without names and unregistered medicines, which may not meet regulatory standards and could pose health risks. We encourage anyone with information about illegal pharmaceutical activities to report through our confidential hotline or email,” Kaluai warned.
The board went on to call on healthcare facilities to apply online for the disposal of pharmaceutical waste.
“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],” it concluded.
