It is with deep sorrow that the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) and the Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) announce the passing of Pharmacist Samuel Amoateng Saffoh, who served as the Pharmacist-in-charge of the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga.

Pharmacist Saffoh departed on Saturday, 23rd September, 2023, at the Tamale Teaching Hospital after undergoing three cycles of haemodialysis since his admission on Tuesday, 19th September, 2023. This sudden loss has left the entire pharmaceutical community in shock, especially as Pharmacist Saffoh was not known to have chronic kidney disease.

Pharmacist Saffoh's unexpected illness and demise are of particular concern given his role as a principal witness in a case involving the theft of medicines and medical consumables from the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga. Furthermore, we are troubled by the fact that another potential witness in the same theft case also fell seriously ill and passed away in August 2023.

As we join the family of Pharmacist Samuel Amoateng Saffoh in their quest for answers, we earnestly call upon the Ghana Police Administration to prioritize and expedite the investigation into his death. The PSGH expresses gratitude to the PSGH Upper East Regional Branch Executive and the PSGH Northern Regional Branch Executive for their unwavering support to our departed colleague and his bereaved family during this challenging time.

The PSGH stands firmly with the family in their pursuit to uncover the cause of Pharmacist Saffoh's untimely demise. We urge the authorities to accelerate the investigative process and ensure that justice is served should anyone be found culpable.

Furthermore, we call upon the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, and the Government of Ghana to take decisive action in investigating and apprehending those responsible for the theft of medicines and medical consumables from the Upper East Regional Hospital. As experts and custodians of medicines, we understand the critical importance of these resources to the health and well-being of our people.

During this trying period, the PSGH appeals to all pharmacists to remain composed as we actively engage with the family, the police, and the relevant authorities to unravel the circumstances surrounding the passing of our colleague.

In closing, the PSGH underscores the imperative for the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, and the government to make the safety and well-being of pharmacists and all healthcare professionals a paramount concern.