Audit Unmasks Drug Theft Syndicate

.... Forensic probe reveals widespread pilferage of medicines in public facilities

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24  - (12-01- 2025) – The Zambian government has uncovered a deep-rooted syndicate behind the massive theft of medicines and medical supplies in the public health sector, following the conclusion of a forensic audit commissioned by President Hakainde Hichilema.

Delivering a joint ministerial statement on behalf of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Health, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jacob Jack Mwiimbu announced that the audit, conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), has been completed and handed over to security agencies for immediate action.

The forensic audit, initiated on 4th October 2024 and covering the period from January 2023 to July 2024, was triggered by growing concern from cooperating partners and the public over the persistent pilferage of medicines. It specifically focused on USAID-funded medical supplies managed by the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA).

According to Mwiimbu, the audit has already borne fruit: “The final audit report will enable the security wings to investigate, arrest, and prosecute a number of those involved in this highly concerning matter.”

So far, a sweeping national operation has seen the Taskforce on the Theft of Government Medicines raid 401 pharmaceutical facilities across Zambia, resulting in the arrest of 75 individuals.

Twenty-seven of these have already been convicted and fined under the Medicines and Allied Substances Act and the Penal Code.

Five of those arrested were employees of the Ministry of Health, suggesting the presence of a well-coordinated internal syndicate. 

Further, three former ZAMMSA directors were found to have deliberately disregarded procurement procedures, resulting in the purchase of medicines that did not meet the 80 percent shelf-life requirement—an act that Mwiimbu described as “wasteful expenditure.”

“These individuals have been arrested and released on police bond pending court appearances, and their case has been referred to the National Prosecution Authority,” Mwiimbu said, adding that there will be “no sacred cows” in the pursuit of justice.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to cooperating with international partners but emphasized the importance of respecting the country’s sovereignty.

“Zambia values its partnerships and remains committed to mutual respect and cooperation,” Haimbe said . 

“However, cooperating partners must adhere to international law, particularly the Vienna Convention of 1961.”

He stressed that the Convention clearly outlines the conduct expected of diplomatic missions, including the obligation to respect the laws and regulations of the host country and to refrain from interference in internal affairs.

Haimbe further said that the government welcomes constructive engagement and dialogue and remains open to resolving any misunderstandings through established diplomatic channels.

“We remain transparent and accountable, and the public will be updated as necessary,” he said. “Transparency and accountability remain our guiding principles.”

While reaffirming its appreciation for the support of cooperating partners, the government underscored its commitment to protecting public resources and maintaining integrity in the health sector.