The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has closed 100 Pharmacies in the Rift Valley due to the region's prevalence of illegal pharmaceutical activities.

According to the Board’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Fred Siyoi, over 30 arrests have been made, with 120 cartons of assorted pharmaceuticals seized from these pharmaceutical outlets.

Further, he said that the arrested individuals will face charges related to the illegal distribution, sale, and possession of pharmaceuticals.

“ Over 30 arrests have been made, with 120 cartons of assorted pharmaceuticals seized, and the closure of more than 100 rogue chemists,” he stated.

The CEO also asserted that the closure of the chemists is a stride towards ensuring the disruption of illicit medical supply, compliance of safety by these outlets and protecting the well-being of citizens.

“The enforcement operation took place between June 3rd to June 7th, 2024, in collaboration with the National Police Service, targeting various locations known for their involvement in illegal pharmaceutical activities.”

The board has attributed the successful tracking and closure of these pharmacies to the numerous surveillance and intelligence gathering which received significant support from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution(ODPP).

Acknowledging the enormous health risks illegal pharmaceuticals pose to the public, the board has affirmed that it will not back down in enforcing compliance within the pharmaceutical industry by ensuring that only safe and legitimate medications are available to the public.

It has further urged the public to remain vigilant and purchase medications only from licensed medical outlets.