The Uganda National Drug Authority (NDA) has arrested a health worker in Kassanda District following a targeted operation that uncovered large quantities of government-supplied medicines hidden in a pit latrine.
The suspect, Nsamba Swamad, an Assistant Nursing Officer at Kassanda Health Center IV, was found in possession of over 100,000 doses of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs), 15,000 doses of Aspirin, and 400 HIV testing kits. All the recovered items were clearly labeled “Government of Uganda Not for Sale.”
Authorities say the medicines were concealed in a pit latrine at a private clinic in Bukuya Trading Center, where the suspect reportedly works part-time.
According to NDA officials, the operation was part of ongoing efforts to crack down on the theft and illegal sale of government medical supplies meant for public health facilities.
The arrest raises fresh concerns about drug theft within the public health system, particularly involving life-saving treatments such as ARVs, which are critical in the management of HIV/AIDS.
Investigations are ongoing to establish whether the suspect acted alone or as part of a wider network involved in the diversion of essential medicines. Authorities have warned that individuals found culpable will face strict legal action.
