Authorities Shut Down Illegal Pharmacies in Nairobi, Seize 169 Cartons of Drugs

Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has arrested 95 people and closed 48 unlicensed pharmacies during a week-long enforcement operation in Nairobi and parts of Kajiado County.

The operation, which ended on 19 June, targeted illegal pharmaceutical outlets in densely populated areas including Kibra, Mathare, Dandora, Eastleigh, Korogocho, Embakasi, Nairobi West and Rongai. Inspectors visited 155 premises and found that nearly two-thirds were operating in violation of licensing requirements.

Julius Kaluai, Head of Good Distribution Practices and Enforcement at the PPB, said suspects have already appeared before courts in Kibra, Makadara and Kajiado. Legal proceedings are now under way. He said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to protect public health by removing unsafe and unregulated drug distribution channels.

Authorities issued closure notices to 48 premises found to be operating without valid licences. The PPB has also written to county security commanders, local authorities and the National Police Service, instructing them to ensure the outlets remain permanently closed.

During the operation, officers seized 169 cartons of medicines from the illegal businesses. The medicines are being held pending court orders for disposal in line with regulatory requirements.

Kaluai warned that individuals operating unlicensed pharmacies could face prosecution and risk losing their professional licences. He urged members of the public to buy medicines only from registered pharmacies, noting that licensed outlets are required by law to display their licences in a visible location.

“The licence is not a secret document. It must be displayed where anybody can see and know who is serving them,” he said.

The PPB is also increasing public awareness efforts and strengthening reporting channels to encourage the public to report suspected illegal pharmaceutical activities.