An initiative to shut down unlicensed pharmacies in the Lower Eastern and Central regions of Kenya has resulted in the arrest and prosecution of thirty people, as well as the confiscation of at least 70 boxes of various medical supplies and technology.
According to Julius Kaluai, Head, Inspectorate and Enforcement at PPB, the crackdown on illegal pharmacies is being undertaken in Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, Kirinyaga, and Murang’a counties with Its objectives being to investigate, prosecute, and report on illegal pharmaceutical outlets in the area. The wholesale pharmaceutical industry, superintendents who are absent, and unlicensed pharmacies are also targeted.
“The affected practitioners are being investigated for possible prosecution and license revocation, the board noted that some licensed practitioners leave their practice in the hands of unqualified staff,” said Mr. Kaluai.
In addition, Mr. Kaluai urged the general public to only buy drugs from authorized retailers, warning that those without names on their displays were more likely to be selling illegal substances.
