In a recent intelligence-led operation in Soroti City, the National Drug Authority (NDA) apprehended seven individuals for illegally vending drugs in open shift markets across Bukhaweka, Butilu in Namisindwa District, and Arapai.
Drug hawking, which is prohibited under Ugandan law, poses significant risks to public health by undermining the integrity of the drug supply chain. It also facilitates the circulation of unregulated and potentially harmful medicines, bypassing the critical oversight of regulatory bodies like the NDA.
Among the suspects arrested were Kisubi Jamada, Ali Matovu, Emmanuel Onyunyu, and Mutawa Clemensia. They were found illegally displaying, selling, and advertising both human and veterinary medicines under harsh weather conditions, exposing the drugs to degradation.
Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA spokesperson, confirmed that eleven boxes of assorted medicines, including antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) and unregistered herbal products, were seized during the operation. The suspects are currently detained at the Mbale District Central Police Station, and their case files have been forwarded to the state attorney for prosecution.
Rwamwiri urged the public to support the NDA’s efforts to combat the illegal sale of pharmaceuticals. “We appeal to Ugandans to join the NDA in fighting against drug hawking and to promote access to safe, effective, and quality medicines by purchasing drugs only from licensed outlets,” he emphasized.
The NDA also highlighted the dangers of purchasing medicines from unregulated sources, such as open markets, transit buses, and streets. Drugs sold in these environments are often exposed to extreme weather conditions, which can compromise their safety and efficacy.
“Hawkers are highly mobile, making it difficult to trace them or take regulatory action when unsuspecting consumers experience life-threatening reactions or derive no health benefits from the drugs. Unlike licensed vendors, these individuals have no fixed locations, leaving victims with little recourse,” Rwamwiri added.
The NDA continues to intensify its enforcement operations to curb the illegal drug trade and protect public health.
