NDA closes over 45 illegal drug outlets in Northern Uganda

10 November 2025, 5:05 pm

By Okello Gift

The National Drug Authority has shut down more than forty-five illegal pharmacies, drug shops, and stores across northern Uganda in a week-long operation aimed at cracking down on the sale of unauthorised medicines.

Speaking to journalists in Gulu City on Friday, NDA Public Relations Officer Abiaz Rwamwiri said the operation covered the districts of Gulu, Kitgum, Amuru, Pader, and Lamwo. During the crackdown, 189 boxes of assorted medicines worth over 125 million shillings were seized.

Rwamwiri confirmed that seven people, including directors of private health facilities and pharmacies, were arrested for illegal possession of government drugs. They are currently in police custody, with their files being processed for submission to the state attorney for prosecution.

He revealed that the most common violations included operating without authorisation, employing unqualified personnel, and storing medicines under poor conditions practices that he warned could lead to treatment failure and antimicrobial resistance.

Rwamwiri also noted that malaria drugs, malaria testing kits, HIV test kits, and antiretroviral drugs are among the most frequently stolen government medicines.

The NDA has urged members of the public to report any suspected illegal drug operations.

Meanwhile, Regional Drug Inspector Igirikwaya Zablon said the operation will continue across northern Uganda to ensure all offenders are brought to justice.