Koforidua: Madam Anita Owusu-Kuffour, the Eastern Regional Head of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and her team recently conducted a swoop on community Information Centres to seize unregistered drugs destined for disposal at the Akwadum dumping site. The operation, intended as a deterrent to other manufacturers, commenced at approximately 05:20 hours, targeting areas within the New Juaben North and South Municipalities, including Koforidua-Effiduase, Asokore, Zongo, Yaw Kyerema, Pipeline, Ada, Two-Streams, KTU area, Mile 50, Okorase, and Apenkwa.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Owusu-Kuffour stated that the exercise aligned with the FDA's objectives to safeguard public health by ensuring the safety and efficacy of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices. During their visits to the information centers, the team encountered drugs claiming to cure ailments such as heart diseases, stroke, and diabetes.
Madam Owusu-Kuffour highlighted that the operation was executed professionally, maintaining control and avoiding confrontation. She noted that drug sellers and information center operators cooperated with the FDA team, allowing them to collect all unauthorized drugs and related advertising devices for proper disposal.
In addition to the seizure, Madam Owusu-Kuffour educated those affected and the public on the necessity of registering products, outlining the strict rules regarding ingredient usage, preparation methods, and labeling. She stressed the importance of labeling for providing safety guidance, appropriate dosage information, and product usage frequency.
Madam Owusu-Kuffour advised consumers to avoid purchasing unregistered goods to help eliminate unsafe products from the market.