Lusaka resident jailed for illegal sale of medicines

KETRA KALUNGA writes @SunZambian
A 38-year-old man of Lusaka has been jailed for six months after being convicted of unlawful possession of medicines.
Obrain Phiri of Mtendere Township was found in possession of medicines contrary to the penal code chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia in one count.
In another count, Phiri has been fined K5, 000 or serve nine months simple Imprisonment or in default for selling at a place other than a pharmacy.
This is contrary the Medicines and Allied Substances Act No. 3 of 2013.
Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) in conjunction with the Zambia Police took Obrian Phiri to Kafue Magistrate court for the offence committed.
ZAMRA senior public relations officer, Christabel Iliamupu, said that the convict works in Kafue where he was operating an illegal pharmacy.
Meanwhile, Ms Iliamupu said ZAMRA was committed to ensuring that medicines were legally obtained and sold in registered outlets.
She said this would ensure safety, quality and efficacy of medicinal products and allied substances being consumed by the Zambian people.
Ms Iliamupu said failure to adhere to the set standards as regards possession and sale of medicinal products and allied substances would result in offenders being prosecuted.