Pharmacy in Mokokchung gets license suspended for illegal sale of prescription drugs

DIMAPUR — The state Drug Controller has suspended the license of Grace Pharmacy in Mokokchung after an investigation revealed that the pharmacy was involved in an illegal supply chain of restricted drugs.

According to an update on Wednesday, the police investigation began at Longkhim in Tuensang district, on April 29 when officers found Alprazolam and Buprenoprhine sublingual drugs in the possession of Yangpili Stm, who was subsequently arrested.

A case was registered at the Longkhim Police Station under section 27 (b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.

During questioning, Stm revealed that he had purchased the drugs from a person named Setingchumla, who in turn obtained them from a person identified as Choting.

“Investigation revealed that the Supply chain was originated from one pharmacy in Mokokchung town, namely Grace Pharmacy (DL NO.3016), AM Road, Mokokchung,” the update stated.

Subsequently, the Tuensang police sent a letter to Drug Inspector (CMO) Mokokchung district intimating the department about the violation of relevant laws such as sale of prescription drugs without prescription by the pharmacy.

Simultaneously, a search was carried out on the said pharmacy and the residence of the proprietor, by following all legal procedures, it said.

During the course of investigation, both the accused revealed that a total of 4,800 tablets were purchased from the pharmacy without any medical prescription, violating the government’s notification on restricted drugs issued on Feb. 3, 2023 as well as the Drugs & Cosmetics Act and Rules.

Based on the detail report by Tuensang Police to the Drug Control Officer under CMO, Mokokchung district, and the Director of Health and Family Welfare, Kohima – Nagaland, and on recommendation of the screening committee, the office of the Drug Controller, Nagaland, has suspended the drug license Grace Pharmacy, it said.

Further, the Nagaland Police lauded the Drug Controller for taking action and assured the public that the department will continue its efforts to combat the illegal sale of prescription drugs under its “War against Drugs” initiative.

It also urged all pharmacies and drug shops in the state to abide by the law and avoid unauthorised sale of drugs, cautioning that owners as well as the employees are both liable for legal action, besides cancellation or suspension of licences for violation of laws.