The National Drug Authority (NDA) has revealed that stolen antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) from Uganda are being sold in countries including South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Following the arrest of six individuals, namely Ambrose Mwiru, Vincent Beinomugisha, Lawrence Mandela, Hillary Ainamanyi, Barbara Tushabe, and Max Natuhereza, who were found in possession of and involved in the sale of 21 boxes of government medical supplies labeled “Not for sale,” Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA Spokesperson, addressed health reporters at the Health Journalists Network in Uganda (HEJNU) offices in Kampala. He emphasized that these stolen drugs are originating from government health facilities and are being illicitly distributed in neighboring countries.

Rwamwiri pointed out that a well-organized network of thieves, operating in locations such as Mbale, Arua, Kiboga, and Ntungamo, is responsible for this criminal activity. Moreover, they are even converting ARVs into animal feed, posing serious risks to human health.

Additionally, some of those apprehended were found in possession of various other medical supplies, including test kits, laboratory equipment, and weighing scales. It’s worth noting that government drugs are typically marked “Not for Sale” by the Ministry of Health, signifying that they are intended for free distribution in all public health facilities.