A retired Ugandan police officer has called for greater involvement of law enforcement in preventing the theft and diversion of government-supplied medicines, which remain a persistent challenge in the country’s health system.
“The police are often only brought in after drugs disappear,” said Morrison Komakech, formerly based in Busia. “But the evolving nature of theft means officers must take a proactive role.”
Uganda’s National Medical Stores (NMS) distribute medicines marked “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale,” yet they are regularly discovered in private facilities, markets, or trafficked abroad.
Komakech urged district police units to collaborate with Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and health officers, conduct routine inspections of pharmacies, and ensure whistleblowers are protected from reprisals.
Theft of government property is punishable under the Penal Code and Anti-Corruption Act, but enforcement remains weak.
Advocates warn that without stronger policing, stolen medicines will continue to undermine public health and trust in state institutions.
