12 people were arrested and their businesses closed during a crackdown by Inspectors from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board in Garissa County.
The suspects were caught on a number of charges among them; operating unlicensed premises and selling unregistered drugs.
Confirming the massive operation, Northeastern region senior drugs inspector Sheikh Omar, stated that 15 business owners escaped after they got a tip of the inspection.
"We suspect they are operating illegally and feared inspection. They are, however, not off the hook. We marked them. They can run but they can not hide," he assured.
Mr Omar noted that out of 44 pharmacies inspected, 32 complied with regulations adding that regulation of the pharmacy practice was still a national function.
"There is a misconception out there by the public and quacks who argue that because Health was devolved, the national regulatory body, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, has no right to inspect. That is not true. The function still remains with the national government," the Inspector explained.
He added that the quacks in the medical profession and unscrupulous business operators were endangering the lives of many Kenyans.
Those who were arrested were taken to Garissa Police Station where they were later released on a cash bail.\
They will be arraigned in court on Monday
