Pharmacy and Poisons Board intensifies surveillance to curb illegal distribution of pharmaceuticals

As part of the operation, the PPB issued a strong warning to unlicensed courier services, motorbike operators, and public transport providers, urging them to avoid transporting pharmaceuticals without authorisation due to the risks of compromising medication quality. 

PPB’s Head of Enforcement and Surveillance, Julius Kaluai, emphasized the importance of regulatory compliance, noted that unlicensed wholesalers, distributors and transporters must meet national standards or face disciplinary measures.

This action follows a recent nationwide audit of health facilities aimed at identifying and addressing malpractices within the pharmaceutical sector. 

Kaluai stated that data gathered during the surveillance would help pinpoint patterns in illegal pharmaceutical activities, enabling intelligence-based enforcement to better target these issues.

He also highlighted the need for closer collaboration between PPB and other government agencies at border points to prevent the entry of unregistered pharmaceuticals, further strengthening safeguards for public health.

Additionally, Kaluai issued a notice to retail outlets operating unauthorised online pharmacies, urging them to register their premises according to the services they provide. 

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected illegal activities within the sector.

This call to action aligns with the PPB’s commitment to reducing health risks associated with medication errors due to non-compliant distribution and transportation practices.