The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has arrested a Nigerian who has been peddling fake drugs in the country.

The suspect is currently in the custody of the Accra Central Police, a release by the Chief Executive of the Authority, Dr. Stephen K. Opuni has said.

Kingsley Okafor was arrested on Saturday with fake medicines, which he intended to supply to pharmacies in the Accra Central Business area.

The medicine peddler had in his possession at the time of arrest; DAZ (Diazepam) injection, Avomine Tablets and Cafergot Tablets, all of which are fake prescription-only-medicines (pom).

Further investigations conducted by the FDA revealed that the fake medicines were smuggled into the country from Nigeria and stored in the residence of the peddlers at Accra Newtown from where they are supplied on demand.

Avomine tablets are used to treat nausea and vomiting; Cafergot, for the treatment of a severe type of headache known as migraine whilst Diazepam is used to relieve anxiety or induce sleep.

The FDA, therefore, cautioned the general public, especially pharmacies, hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities against buying medicines from drug peddlers and other dubious sources.

“Medicines purchased from these sources are not only fake but are also transported and stored under improper conditions, which could result in their deterioration well before their stated expiry thus putting the health of consumers of such medicines at risk.

“Additionally, information from the general public on persons in any practice possible of endangering public health and safety with respect to FDA’s mandate is most welcomed through any of the following contact numbers; 0244337235, 0246809509, 0244571563 or 0544863418.”