Counterfeit Surgical Antiseptics Operation Busted in Kampala

The National Drug Authority (NDA) has apprehended two suspects, Rodney Ssali and Cornerious Otang, in connection with a significant operation involving the production and sale of fake surgical antiseptics in Kampala. According to NDA spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri, the crackdown occurred over the weekend following an intelligence-led operation.

During the raid at their business premises on William Street and other locations, authorities discovered over 200 liters of packaged counterfeit solutions, including popular brands like Kevlon Gentle Antiseptic, Povidone-Iodine, and Iodine Tincture. These fake products were reportedly being supplied to multiple clinics and laboratories within Kampala.

Investigators detailed that Ssali allegedly operated a clandestine manufacturing unit within a shared commercial space, mixing chemicals smuggled from Kenya by Otang. To legitimize his illicit products, Ssali is accused of collaborating with printing businesses on Nasser Road to replicate genuine branding and illegally print valid NDA registration numbers onto the counterfeit packaging.

During a press conference presenting the suspects, Ssali reportedly confessed to his involvement and provided a list of seven pharmacies and health facilities he had supplied. He admitted to using repurposed used boxes for packaging. The NDA has confirmed that enforcement teams are actively working to retrieve all fake products from affected outlets.

Mr. Rwamwiri issued a stern warning, stating that any health facility found to be stocking or distributing these counterfeit medical supplies faces the immediate revocation of its operating license. He emphasized the grave public health risks associated with adulterated antiseptics, noting that incorrect concentrations can lead to severe sepsis, chemical burns, or fatal infections for patients undergoing surgical procedures.

The suspects are facing multiple charges under the National Drug Authority and Policy Act, including manufacturing and distributing falsified medical supplies, operating without a license, and doing so without the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. They are expected to be arraigned before the Standards, Utilities, and Wildlife Court in Kampala.

This operation follows a recent NDA crackdown in Kampala that led to the arrest of four individuals found with 12,000 doses of stolen HIV medications.