The Drug Law Enforcement Agency (DLEAG) in partnership with National Pharmaceuticals Services has launched inspections to pharmacies, public and private health facilities in a bid to monitor the sales and distributions of controlled drugs. 

The inspection comes amid rising use of illegal drugs resulting in the arrest of hundreds of Gambians and non-Gambians.

“The exercise is in fulfilment of the provisions of the Drug Control Act (DCA) 2003 regarding the monitoring of operators dealing in the sales and distribution of controlled drugs, precursor materials and chemicals.  

“The DCA 2003 is an act of parliament that provides for the regulation of the usage and possession of controlled drugs, prohibited drugs and precursors and for matters connected therewith,” the agency said in a statement.

“Operators are required by law pursuant to section 59(1) to provide inspectors account of controlled drugs, precursor materials and or chemicals in their possession. 

“Any person or entity who neglects or fails to comply with inspectors commits and offense pursuant to section 59(2) of the DCA 2003. 

“In the same vein, obstructing inspectors in the due execution of their duty is an offense pursuant to section 62(1) of the DCA 2003.

“Furthermore, operators will be provided a single Dangerous Drugs Administration (DDA) entry book for the inventory and recording of the purchase, sales and distribution of controlled drugs. 

“This measure is in compliance with section 30 (1) and (5) respectively of the DCA 2003. The DDA entry book will help strengthen control mechanisms aimed at providing access to controlled drugs and preventing diversion,” it added.

“Operators are therefore urged to strictly adhere to this regulation and keep the books in good condition, take accurate and proper records and ensure that the books suffer no damage nor are they tampered with. 

“In view of the above thereof, all operators are advised to cooperate with operators and comply accordingly in our collective efforts to provide quality health care service to the population while preventing diversion,” it continued.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba