Mali's Central Drug Control Office (OCS) has seized and destroyed more than 60 tons of counterfeit pharmaceutical products during a large-scale nationwide operation. The seizure was reported by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) press service on October 16.
The operation, which began on October 6, culminated in the incineration of the substances in the Kati district, southwestern Mali. The estimated value of the counterfeit medications is preliminarily assessed at several billion CFA francs.
"We want the public to know the final destination of the confiscated goods. This also sends a strong signal against the illicit trafficking of substances that are detrimental to health," stated Bassirou Bamba, Deputy Director-General of the OCS.
Dr. Abdoulaye Guindo, a representative from the Pharmacy and Medicines Directorate, highlighted the health risks associated with using counterfeit products and welcomed the OCS initiatives as effective measures to protect citizens.
Furthermore, he urged young people to refrain from drug consumption and involvement in drug trafficking.
"The future of the country is in their hands. They must dedicate themselves to education and national development," emphasized Bamba.
In a related development from September 20, the South African Police Service (SAPS) discovered a drug laboratory on a farm in the eastern part of the country, where methamphetamine with an estimated street value of around $20 million was being produced.
Maria Safonova
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