NDA Arrests Two Suspects Over Illegal Distribution of Shs45M Worth of Medicines

The National Drug Authority (NDA) has apprehended two individuals suspected of illegally distributing expired and counterfeit medical devices and medicines worth over Shs45 million. The operation highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to curb the circulation of unregulated pharmaceutical products across Uganda.

According to the NDA, suspects Henry Otim and Musa Kagimu were detained during an intelligence-led raid at Good Life Healthcare in Najjeera, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District. Investigators established that the pair operated from premises on Wilson Road in Kampala, supplying medical supplies to various health facilities without the mandatory operational licenses.

Authorities recovered a significant haul of sensitive medical items, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) drugs for HIV prevention, alongside diagnostic test kits for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Helicobacter pylori. Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly tampered with product expiry dates, dangerously masking expired items to make them appear safe for public use.

Health experts have expressed deep concern over the recovered items, noting that compromised diagnostic kits and delayed PEP treatments—which must be taken within 72 hours of exposure—pose life-threatening risks to patients. The NDA stressed that medications acquired outside the legal supply chain lack any guarantee of safety, quality, or efficacy.

The suspects are currently held at Kira Road Police Station and will soon face prosecution at the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court. In the wake of these arrests, the NDA has cautioned all healthcare providers and pharmacies against patronizing unauthorized suppliers, urging the public to report illicit dealers via their toll-free line.

Read more about this operation on the Nile Post.