Security operatives, in conjunction with the National Drug Authority (NDA), have arrested the prime suspect behind the theft of drugs worth Shs1.5 billion from Kitugm General Hospital.
The suspect has been identified as Robert Akena, the person in charge of the pharmacy unit at Kitugm General Hospital.
He is accused of masterminding the theft of various medical equipment and drugs belonging to the government.
Abiaz Rwamwiri, the NDA Spokesperson, said the suspect was arrested as he was trying to cross into South Sudan on December 7, 2022, during an intelligence-led operation.
“He was running into Juba when he was tracked and returned home. However, he managed to escape, but he was still re-arrested as he was crossing back to South Sudan,” Abiaz said.
Akena, who holds a Diploma in Pharmacy, was operating a retail drug shop known as AKFRANC MEDICINES in Monbunyu, Pandwong Division, Kitgum district, which is authorized to sell only Class C drugs and not Class A and B.
His arrest comes at a time when security and the National Drugs Authority have intensified operations against drug theft and illegal operations by unlicensed facilities in the country.
During the operation, security also arrested drug hawkers selling fake medicine and unlicensed drug shop operators.