Workers at the Migori Level Four Hospital went on strike on Friday in support of three of their colleagues, accused of stealing drugs worth Sh400.
Operations at the hospital remained paralyzed for hours after the workers took to the streets in protest.
Their colleagues, Phelensia Achieng, Agnes Morara and Vivian Chepng'eno were arraigned at a Migori Court accused of stealing drugs and syringes all totaling Sh400, much to the displeasure of the health workers.
Colleagues from the hospital filled the court room as they awaited the sentencing of the three.
Excitement filled the court room as the charges were read against the three.
They denied the charges and were released on cash bail of Sh20,000 each and an alternative bond of Sh50,000.
Outside the court, demos continued as the workers, carrying twigs and banners expressed their anger at what they said were false charges.
They claimed that charges had been drummed up and that they had been experiencing harassment and victimization at the hospital.
Some blamed the hospital's administration for their decision to have the three prosecuted over drugs worth only Sh400.
Cases in which health workers are alleged to have stolen drugs from their workplace have been reported in some public hospitals in the past.
In some cases, the hospital administration has dealt with the matter internally.
In others, however, police have been involved with the accused facing legal action.
Speculations have been raised that the stolen drugs find their way into chemists where they are sold at a higher price.
