The suspects were nabbed after NDA conducted an intelligence-led enforcement operation in open shift markets of Bukhaweka and Butilu in Namisindwa district and Arapai in Soroti City.

 Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA spokesperson said the detained group who include a medical laboratory assistant were allegedly displaying, selling, and advertising human and veterinary medicine under the scorching sun.

“Eleven boxes of assorted medicine including ARV’s, Antimalarials, HIV testing kits, veterinary medicine and unregistered herbal products were impounded. 

The suspects are currently held at Mbale District Central Police Station and Soroti Regional Police Station, their files have been handed over to the state attorney for prosecution," Rwamwiri said.

The arrest comes in the wake of a series of other arrests by NDA in different parts of the country after carrying out intelligence operations targeting unlawful possession of classified drugs in unauthorized places.

In September last year, NDA raided a private residence located at Katongole’s apartments in Namungoona-Kasubi, Kampala District and during the operation, a suspect was found in possession of 25 boxes of classified drugs, some marked “Government of Uganda Not for Sale” including antimalarials, ARVs worth over 9,000,000= (Nine million) Uganda shillings.

Rwamwiri said the operation led to the arrest of one Aaron Michael Mwesigye who was taken into police custody for further investigation and legal action.

“Some of the drugs had expired and it is suspected they were to be rebranded and sold to unsuspecting Ugandans on black market. Some of the products that are temperature sensitive (supposed to be kept between 2-8 degrees) were in a non-pharmaceutical fridge that wasn’t powered which compromises their quality and efficiency,” he added.

Rwamwiri said some products had expired in 2019, 2022 and 2023, raising concern about the intention to repackage and bring them on black market to unsuspecting members of the public.

Rwamwiri noted that NDA advises all unlicensed operators to immediately cease operations and comply with the legal requirements to sell medicines and healthcare products in Uganda.

“We appeal to the public to always buy drugs from only licensed pharmacies and drug shops, remain vigilant and report anyone suspected to be involved in drug crimes on our toll-free line 0800 101 999 or WhatsApp line 0740 002 070,” he stated.