3 Nigeriens grabbed for selling unlicensed drugs

The three suspected drug dealers

Public Health Officers of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) have arrested three Niger nationals in Accra for allegedly ped­dling aphrodisiacs and an unidenti­fied liquid substance purported to be a ‘heart cleanser’.

The suspects, Ibrahim Bashiru, 25, Mohammed Abu Qassim, 27, and Abdul Salam Abass 27, were arrested for retailing unlicensed medications to the public on Friday after a tip-off.

They are currently in police cus­tody assisting with investigations to determine the origin and composi­tion of the substance after which they would be arraigned in court.

Speaking to The Spectatorafter the arrest, the Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Gilbert Ankrah said the confiscated substance had no proper labelling, details of the manufactur­er, and expiry date, adding that the suspects would face the full rigours of the law.

He said initial examinationscon­ducted by the Head of the Public Health Department of the AMA revealed that there was a potential health hazard associated with the substance.

“During investigation, the liquid substance was poured into a plastic takeaway pack which melted in no time, Mr Ankrah disclosed.

He said the AMA was collaborating with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA)and otherrelevant agencies to assess the risk posed by illicit substances on the market, adding that the AMA would ensurethorough investigations were conducted and take necessary actions to prevent harm to the public.

He assured that the AMA would push for stringent enforcement and proactive measures to protect inhabitants and make the city safe for all.

 By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu