A 54-year-old woman has been arrested after authorities uncovered an unlicensed pharmacy and medical practice operating from a residential property in Duncan Village in the Eastern Cape.

The Witness reports the arrest followed a multi-disciplinary operation conducted shortly after midnight yesterday.

Joint operation

Police said the joint team included the Eastern Cape Missing Person Unit, East London K9 Unit and Buffalo City Environmental Health Services, who acted on intelligence to search the premises.

During the raid, officials seized a large quantity of medication, injections, a speed point device and an undisclosed amount of cash. The confiscated medicines are estimated to have a street value of R85 500.

Charges and warning

The suspect is facing multiple charges, including possession of scheduled substances under the Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965, practising without registration under the Health Professions Act 56 of 1974, and contravening regulations related to the repackaging of medicines.

Eastern Cape police commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata said the operation highlights the dangers posed by illegal medical practices.

“The proliferation of unlicensed medical practices in our communities is not merely a regulatory violation, it is a direct threat to the lives and health of vulnerable citizens, who are often exploited with false promises of affordable care,” said Ncata.

The suspect remains in custody and is expected to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court soon. Police said investigations are ongoing and additional charges may be added.

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