By Kuda Pembere
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) on Wednesday raided and confiscated illegal medicines from six shops in Caledonia, close to Old Tafara.
Forfeited were unregistered medicines, expired drugs, and even registered medicines being sold unlawfully in the Gazebo area of Caledonia, Mabvuku.
In a statement, MCAZ Director General Mr Richard Rukwata said this raid was done in partnership with the Zimbabwe Republic Police Drug and Narcotics Unit.
“Today, the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ), in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Drugs and Narcotics Division, conducted a successful blitz raid in the Gazebo area of Caledonia, Harare. The operation was at targeted unlicensed shops suspected of unauthorised dealing in medicines and other pharmaceutical products,” he said.
Mr Rukwata said the people manning the unlicensed shops were arrested.
“During the raid, six unlicensed shops were inspected, leading to the discovery of unregistered medicines, expired drugs, and even registered medicines being sold unlawfully. All the shops were manned by unlicenced individuals.
“As a result of our joint efforts, six suspects were apprehended, including one supplier of these pharmaceutical products,” he said.
He said as MCAZ they remain committed to upholding their mandate of safeguarding public health, urging people to report the unlawful sale of registered and unregistered drugs.
“Resultantly, all the discovered medicines were confiscated by the police and the suspects are now in the hands of the police and assisting with investigations.
“The MCAZ and the ZRP remain committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical products available to the public. Such collaborative actions underscore our dedication to upholding regulatory standards and safeguarding public health
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious pharmaceutical activities to the authorities. Together, we can combat the distribution of unregistered and expired medicines, promoting a safer environment for all Zimbabweans,” Mr Rukwata said.
Some of the medicines recovered include Anti-biotics, Anti-seizure drugs( Anti-epileptic drugs), Anti-hypertensive drugs, anti-diabetes drugs, antidepressants, cough syrups, Analgesics e.g paracetamol and aspirin.
