PCN seals 505 illegal medicine outlets in Cross River

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has cracked down on illicit drug sales in Cross River State, sealing 505 outlets during a recent enforcement drive. The operation, spanning four days and covering 10 local government areas, inspected 602 premises and found nearly half operating outside regulatory standards.

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These premises are operated by quacks and untrained persons who are not accountable to any statutory authority.

Dr. Suleiman S. Chiroma, speaking for the PCN Registrar, revealed that 291 illegal medicine shops, 54 pharmacies, and 160 patent medicine stores were shut down. He highlighted the recent conviction of a woman sentenced to eight years for operating unlicensed shops as proof of escalating legal consequences for violations.

Chiroma noted that compliance among registered pharmacies was low, with only 42.5% fully adhering to regulations, and just 26.8% of patent medicine vendors meeting standards. Common infractions included operating without licenses, improper drug storage, and unauthorized apprenticeships.

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the council’s enforcement actions now carry legal consequences.

He emphasized that these illegal outlets are often run by "quacks" who are not accountable. The PCN urged residents to buy medicines only from licensed vendors to prevent treatment failures, antimicrobial resistance, and other health issues. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to achieve Universal Health Coverage by ensuring access to safe and quality medicines.

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the council’s crackdown in the state had only begun, as efforts to eliminate fake and unregistered drug businesses would be sustained.