127 pharmacies across the Coastal Region found operating without authorisation have been shut down following a sting operation mounted by officials from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
A statement by the board indicated that the crackdown took place in targeted retailers on the morning of Thursday, February 3.
70 individuals who were found operating some of the pharmacies were also aprrehended and are waiting to be arraigned in court.
The targeted distribution outlets included chemists, clinics, herbal medicine stores and cosmetic shops stocking medicament containing preparations disguised as cosmetics.
The operation led to the seizure of 111 cartons of assorted Hyperparathyroidism (HPT) medicine found in the premises.
"The seized medicines will be analysed and disposed of as off guided through the issued court orders.
"So far, a total of One hundred and twenty seven (127) premises have been issued with closure notices and their details shall be shared with other government administrative agencies for joint enforcement of closure," read the statement in part.
The operation was conducted by officials from PPB in conjunction with the Kenya Police Service (KPS), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Judiciary.
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the human parathyroid glands, found in the thyroid gland at the front of your neck, become enlarged and produce excessive amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH).
Parathyroid glands are important in that they maintain the levels of calcium in the body but when poorly treated, the result can be catastrophic.
PPB cautioned all pharmaceutical practitioners and medical representatives that all medical reps permits, annual practice licenses, certificates for registration of premises and wholesale dealer’s licenses expire by December 31 of every year and must be renewed before then.
