The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has closed down 95 illegal pharmaceutical outlets in the lower eastern region in an ongoing crackdown.
The board which began its crackdown on February 22, 2021, in conjunction with the Kenya Police Service covered, Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos counties.
"PPB has observed a trend where licensed pharmacy outlets are left to be manned by unqualified persons. Such absentee superintendents have been summoned for disciplinary action as per Cap 244 of the laws of Kenya, " read a statement by the board.
They arrested sixty-one people and seized eight five cartons of assorted medicines in the operation.
Led by the Deputy Director Inspectorate, Surveillance and Enforcement Dr. Dominic Kariuki, the team charged the culprits with possession of part 1 poisons contrary to section 26(1) of the Pharmacy and Poisons Act. They were also accused of running pharmaceutical businesses in unregistered premises among other crimes.
Those who pleaded guilty were fined up to Ksh.240,000 or imprisonment of up to 18 months. PPB applauded the authorities for the support and requested the court to impose fines.
"PPB wishes to thank the Kenya Police Service and the Judiciary for their cooperation during this crackdown. However, the Board wishes to request the courts to enhance fines for those found guilty, in line with the fines in the amended Cap 244, to act as a deterrent," the board pleaded.
The board advised members of the public are advised to use health safety codes displayed in registered pharmacy outlets to verify the legality of the premises.
It further notified both the public and private healthcare facilities and those handling pharmaceuticals to apply online for safe disposal of any pharmaceutical waste that they may have or get in touch with PPB regional officers via their website.
