Five Arrested in Harare Over Illegal Possession of Unregistered Medicines

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the arrest of five suspects in connection with the unlawful possession of unregistered medicines and pharmaceutical products in Harare.

Police identified the suspects as Vanessa Mudokwenyi (27), Cheneta Zifodya (46), Jack Muchineuta (40), Tonderai Veremu (52), and Collen Magama (52). The arrests were carried out on May 16, 2026, at the Showground parking area in Belvedere following a police operation targeting illegal pharmaceutical trading activities.

According to police, the suspects were found in possession of assorted unregistered medicines and medical supplies with an estimated street value of US$2,697.

Recovered items allegedly include:

• Ashotoxy injections

• Penstrirect cattle injections

• Oxytetracycline injections

• Flu tablets

• Hypodermic needles

• Ceftriaxone Sodium injections

• Tetanus vaccines

• Amoxicillin tablets

• Calcigard Retard

• Enalapril Maleate

• Sodium Chloride

• Lidocaine injections

• Other pharmaceutical products

Police say investigations are continuing to determine the source of the medicines and whether the products were intended for illegal resale or distribution.

Health authorities and law enforcement agencies in Zimbabwe have increasingly warned against the illegal sale and distribution of unregistered medicines, saying the practice poses serious public health risks. Medical expert Johannes Marisa said unregulated medicines can expose patients to dangerous side effects, incorrect dosages, and counterfeit products.

“People should only purchase medicines from licensed pharmacies and authorised medical suppliers because unregistered drugs can be harmful or ineffective,” Marisa said.

The illegal sale of prescription medicines and veterinary drugs has reportedly increased in informal markets across Zimbabwe amid growing demand for cheaper medication. Authorities say some medicines entering the black market are smuggled into the country or distributed without approval from the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has recently intensified operations targeting illegal pharmaceutical trading, drug smuggling, and the unlawful distribution of controlled medical substances. Police warned members of the public against purchasing medicines from unlicensed dealers or street vendors. Investigators are expected to determine whether additional suspects or suppliers are linked to the case.

Unregistered Medicines Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe News, Crime News, ZRP, Illegal Medicines, Harare Arrests, Pharmaceutical Crime, Public Health Zimbabwe