129 arrested in countrywide crackdown on illegal pharmacies
By Amina Wako |
The arrested individuals are expected to face charges related to the possession and sale of unregistered and illicit medicines.
A joint operation led by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) and the National Police Service has resulted in the arrest of at least 129 individuals and the closure of their premises in a crackdown on illegal pharmacy outlets.
The operation, which commenced on January 29, targeted illegal pharmaceutical premises and chemists distributing unregistered medicines in Nairobi, the South Rift, and Western regions.
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PPB head of enforcement and surveillance, Julius Kaluai, emphasised the importance of the operation, stating, “The operation is aimed to enforce regulatory standards, ensure public safety, and curb unlawful practices in the pharmaceutical sector.”
The arrested individuals are expected to face charges related to the possession and sale of unregistered and illicit medicines.
Seizure
The joint operation seized more than 200 cartons of illegal medicines, addressing the risks associated with the lack of safety and efficacy guarantees in these unregulated establishments.
Kaluai cautioned the public against purchasing medicines from unauthorised sources, highlighting that any chemist or pharmacy without proper signage is a key indicator of its illegality.
PPB CEO Fred Siyoi expressed concern about individuals running pharmacies without the necessary qualifications and licenses.
"There is a challenge with individuals running pharmacies without proper qualifications and licenses," Siyoi said.
Last year, the PPB proposed the 'Nyumba Kumi' initiative to involve the public in identifying and reporting suspected operators or outlets within communities, aiming to eliminate quacks in the pharmaceutical sector.
Siyoi also announced the board's initiative to regulate the activities of pharmaceutical sales representatives, ensuring their qualifications and ethical practices in promoting medicines and health products.
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