Gov't Closes Over 100 Pharmacies In Rift Valley

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has shut down over one hundred illegal chemists in the Rift Valley region.

In a statement on Monday, June 10, PPB said over 30 people have been arrested and 120 cartons of assorted pharmaceuticals seized.

“In response to unlawful pharmaceutical activities in the Rift Valley region, the Board has undertaken a series of coordinated operations resulting in significant outcomes. Over 30 arrests have been made, with 120 cartons of assorted pharmaceuticals seized, and the closure of more than 100 rogue chemists,” read the statement in part.

According to PPB, the 30 suspects will face charges related to illegal distribution, sale and possession of pharmaceuticals.

The board noted that the crackdown followed a comprehensive investigation into unlawful practices within the pharmaceutical industry, including the illegal sale of prescription medications, fraudulent activities involving government drugs, and unlicensed pharmaceutical distribution channels.

The crackdown was carried between June 3 and June 7 2024 in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS) officers.

“The Board remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain. The proliferation of illicit pharmaceuticals poses a significant threat to public health and safety,” PPB added.

Further, the board urged members of the public to take caution when purchasing pharmaceuticals and to obtain medications only from licensed and reputable sources.

“The Board is committed to continue monitoring and enforcing compliance within the pharmaceutical industry by ensuring that, only safe and legitimate medications are available to the public,” PPB remarked.