Seven suspects have been arrested for selling unauthorized medicines at open-air markets in Bukhaweka, Butilu (Namisindwa District), and Arapai (Soroti City). The operation, led by the National Drug Authority (NDA) with security support, targeted individuals openly selling human and veterinary drugs under unsafe conditions, including exposure to the sun.
Among those arrested are Jamada Kisubi, Ali Matovu, Emmanuel Onyunyu (a medical lab assistant), and Clemensia Mutawa. Authorities seized eleven boxes of assorted medicines, including ARVs, antimalarials, HIV testing kits, veterinary drugs, and unregistered herbal products.
The suspects are held at Mbale and Soroti police stations, with their files forwarded for prosecution.
Public Health Risks
illegal sale of medicines fuels self-medication, expired drug circulation, and unlicensed drug shops, endangering lives and straining Uganda’s healthcare system.
Factjaja has been investigating these activities, uncovering complex networks involved in smuggling government drugs.
Adolph Muhumuza
