The Hawks shut down a fake pharmacy in Acornhoek, Mpumalanga, after catching unqualified workers selling medication illegally.
The raid formed part of a joint operation between the Hawks, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the White River Flying Squad and the Acornhoek Local Criminal Record Centre. Officers made the arrests on Thursday, following a tip-off from SAHPRA.
UNQUALIFIED STAFF CAUGHT BEHIND THE COUNTER
Authorities followed up on information about suspicious activities at the illegal pharmacy. When officers arrived with a search warrant, they discovered four workers behind the counter serving customers. None of them could prove they were qualified to handle or dispense medicine.
Soon after, the 50-year-old owner arrived at the scene. He failed to produce a valid operating licence or professional credentials. Investigators later confirmed that the business had never been registered with the South African Pharmacy Council.
PRESCRIPTION DRUGS SEIZED
Officers confiscated a variety of scheduled medicines, ranging from Schedule 1 to Schedule 6. The Hawks are still calculating the total value of the seized items, as experts continue their analysis.
The suspects will now face several charges under the Medical and Related Substances Act and the Pharmacy Ownership and Licensing Regulations. Their court appearance is expected soon.
SIX YEARS OF ILLEGAL OPERATION
The Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Major General Nico Gerber, applauded the teamwork between all agencies involved.
“It has been six years since the owner started operating,” said Gerber. “Many people may have been affected. We are pleased that the business is now closed and further harm will be prevented.
Gerber added that the operation shows how collaboration between law enforcement and regulators can protect communities from unsafe medical practices.
