NAFDAC destroys counterfeit drugs valued at N100 billion, apprehends 40 Suspects in Ibadan
The National Agency for Foods, Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has seized and destroyed counterfeit and banned pharmaceutical products worth N100 billion in Ibadan, Oyo State, apprehending at least 40 suspects.
According to NAFDAC, the destruction exercise was necessary to prevent the reintroduction of expired, fake, substandard, and falsified drugs into circulation.
The Director General of NAFDAC, Professor Christiana Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this information during a destruction exercise which took place at the Dumpsite in Moniya, Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. She was represented by Mrs. Yedunni Adenuga, Director of Narcotics and Control Services.
Prof. Adeyeye described the discovery of counterfeit and banned products in major markets across the country as “mind-boggling.” The seized items included banned pharmaceutical products such as Analgin and controlled substances like Tramadol 225mg.
Prof. Adeyeye highlighted that these illegal products contribute to insecurity in the country, stating, “the discoveries made of the presence of unregistered products, banned products such as Analgin, controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg amongst others, are part of the things making our country unsafe in terms of security.”
The operation was carried out with the support of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, who approved the deployment of over 1000 security personnel.
The personnel included the military, police, and the Department of State Services (DSS).
During the destruction exercise, Prof. Adeyeye revealed that the seized products included expired, falsified, controlled, unregistered, and banned medicines removed from Idumota Open Drugs outlets.
“The estimated street value of these products being destroyed stands at one hundred billion naira” she said.
The Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Pharm. Shaba Mohammed, highlighted that selling of drugs in open markets, as well as hawking drugs inside vehicles or kiosks is illegal. He stated that such acts are punishable under the law.
NAFDAC’s three-week operation led to the arrest of several suspects, with further investigations ongoing.
Those found guilty would face punishments as part of the agency’s efforts to address the circulation of harmful and illegal pharmaceutical products in the country.
source:https://www.intelregion.com/news/nafdac-destroys-banned-drugs-worth-n100bn-in-ibadan/
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