The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has apprehended suspects in an illegal medicine distribution syndicate in Kajiado County.
According to the board, a crackdown launched targeting particular areas in the county after accusations surfaced that pharmaceuticals from public healthcare facilities were being looted and privately distributed.
The premises were found to be unlicensed and administering medications without board approval.
“The stolen pharmaceuticals were found in unlicensed chemists, posing serious health risks to the public due to their unregulated handling and distribution. These medicines, intended for public use, had been illegally diverted for commercial gain,” said the board.
“The commodities have been confiscated for use as exhibits during prosecution. Those found guilty will face stringent penalties as per the penal code and other applicable laws.”
Meanwhile, a further probe has been launched for other suspects who are believed to be engaging in the illegal practices and are at large.
This comes amid a nationwide crackdown which has led to the arrest of 35 suspects, 50 premises have been shut down and 150 cartons of assorted health products and technologies have also been confiscated.
Members of the public have also been advised to exercise caution and only purchase pharmaceuticals from licensed and reputable sources.