•The operation, according to the board was launched after investigations uncovered a syndicate involved in the pilferage of government stores within the county.
•Extensive investigation was launched following alarming reports of medicine shortages in public healthcare facilities within the region.
Image: FILE
Several individuals have been arrested in Kajiado County for alleged theft of drugs from public health facilities.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board in a statement on Sunday said the operation conducted by its officials in collaboration with the National Police Service saw drugs meant for public hospitals recovered in private unlicensed chemists.
PPB said the medicines, intended for public use had allegedly been illegally diverted for commercial sale.
The operation, according to the board was launched after investigations uncovered a syndicate involved in the pilferage of government stores within the county.
According to the Head of Enforcement and Surveillance at PPB Julius Kaluai, the extensive investigation was launched following alarming reports of medicine shortages in public healthcare facilities within the region.
“The inquiry has so far revealed a network of individuals involved in the theft and illegal distribution of these essential medicines,” Kaluai said.
Kaluai said the outlest were found to be unlicensed, dispensing medications without the necessary licenses and approvals from the board.
He has raised concern that the alleged stolen drugs found in unlicensed chemists pose serious health risks to the public due to their unregulated handling and distribution.
“Several individuals have been arrested in connection with these illegal activities. The commodities have been confiscated for use as exhibits during prosecution,” he said.
“Those found guilty will face stringent penalties as per the penal code and other applicable laws,” he added.
In parallel exercise, the board, through sustained routine enforcement and surveillance strategies has also seized 150 cartons of assorted health products and technologies.
Thirty-five offenders have been arrested and 50 premises have been shut down for flouting various regulations.
Kaluai has urged the public to exercise caution and only purchase pharmaceuticals from licensed and reputable sources.
The public should be wary of chemists operating without names, as this is a key indicator of illegality, as well as unregistered medicines, which may not meet regulatory standards and could adversely affect health.”
He called on the public to verify the legitimacy of pharmacy outlets and report any suspicious activities to the board said to ensure safety and well-being of all Kenyans.