PNG Health Minister Warns Against Illegal Street Sale of Medical Drugs

PNG Health Minister Warns Against Illegal Street Sale of Medical Drugs

​PNG Health Minister Elias Kapavore has raised serious concerns over the growing trend of medical drugs being sold illegally on the streets, warning that such practices put lives at risk and undermine the healthcare system.

Speaking out following the arrest of four individuals in Goroka for allegedly selling prescription medications, Kapavore stressed that drugs such as antibiotics and anti-malarials are procured by the Government for public hospitals and clinics — not for private street sales.

“We’re seeing an alarming rise in the street sale of medical supplies,” Kapavore said. “These medicines are meant for patients in hospitals. The Government didn’t spend millions so people could sell them on the roadside.”

The arrests have sparked an investigation by the Eastern Highlands Health Authority, which has identified drug theft along the supply chain as a growing issue.

Acting CEO Dr Pomusa Warina described the situation as a major concern, saying: “We are facing shortages of essential medical supplies. These are drugs issued by the Health Department, and thefts are occurring during the distribution process.”

Warina added that the recent arrests have exposed just a fraction of the problem.

“This is only the tip of the iceberg,” he said. “With police assistance, we aim to fully uncover how these drugs are being diverted from the system. Evidence so far suggests that some health workers may be involved.”

Eastern Highlands provincial police commander Chief Superintendent John Kale confirmed the arrests and said the suspects will face charges and be released on bail.

Minister Kapavore also revealed that the Government has allocated K116 million this year for the procurement of medical supplies, underscoring the importance of safeguarding public health resources.

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