Sierra Leone — August 21, 2025: The Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone has concluded a two-day disciplinary hearing targeting 136 pharmaceutical outlets and enterprises for multiple violations of national drug regulations. The hearings, held on August 20 and 21 at the Board’s Conference Room in Freetown, form part of its quarterly enforcement drive to uphold pharmaceutical standards and protect public health.
The infractions were uncovered during routine inspections by the Board’s Distribution Chain Inspection Department. Violations ranged from operating without qualified personnel to the sale of counterfeit and unregistered drugs, and the illegal stocking of Class A and B controlled substances in unauthorized premises.
In accordance with Section 12(1) and Section 12(4)(b) of the Pharmacy and Drugs Act 2021, each breach attracted a fine of Le500. Offending outlets have been given 21 days to settle penalties through the Pharmacy Board’s official account.
Dr. Joy Bernadette Johnson, Head of the Enforcement and Narcotics Control Department, emphasized that the disciplinary action sends a clear warning to defaulters. “No outlet or professional will be spared if found violating the law, especially those dealing in restricted medicines,” she stated.
Registrar of the Pharmacy Board, Dr. James Komeh, condemned the persistent disregard for ethical standards, warning that pharmacists who neglect their duties risk losing their licenses. “These illegal practices endanger public health and safety. Compliance is not optional—it’s a professional obligation,” he said.
Chairing the Disciplinary Committee, Thomas Joe Freeman Esq of the Attorney-General’s Office, cautioned that once the revised Pharmacy Act is enacted, repeat offenders will face harsher penalties, including license revocation and permanent closure. “This hearing is not just about fines—it’s about protecting Sierra Leoneans from dangerous pharmaceutical practices,” he declared.
The Pharmacy Board urges all operators to strictly adhere to licensing requirements, maintain qualified staff on premises, and avoid stocking prohibited or unregistered medicines. Failure to comply will continue to attract disciplinary action under the Board’s compliance framework