KAMPALA: A retired Ugandan police officer says the country’s law enforcement must do more to stop government-supplied medicines from being stolen and sold illegally.
Morrison Komakech, who served in Busia near the Kenyan border, said police are usually called in only after theft has occurred. “That approach is no longer enough,” he said. “The evolving nature of drug theft requires proactive policing.”
Medicines supplied by the National Medical Stores are stamped “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale.” Still, officials say they routinely show up in private clinics, open-air markets, and across borders.
Komakech recommended that police units cooperate with local administrators and health officials, check pharmacies for stolen stock, and protect whistleblowers who report theft.
Theft of government property is a criminal offense in Uganda, but prosecutions are rare. Public health advocates warn that medicine pilferage not only endangers patients but also erodes trust in health services.
