Fake medicine importer arrested

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), with the assistance of the security agencies has arrested Rita Fordjour, a 52- year- old woman, for allegedly importing fake medicine from China- Trex Orix Forte, multivitamin syrup.

The drug was originally produced by Kama Pharmaceuticals.

A statement issued by the Authority and copied to Ghana News Agency said Rita who hails from Koforidua, in the Eastern Region was arrested at Haatso, a suburb of Accra with more than 12,000 bottles of the fake Tres Orix Forte.

It bears the manufacturer’s address as Kama Pharmaceuticals, Ghana and all other features as the original.

The Authority is therefore alerting the public to be cautious of the fake syrup, which has a light brown colour with a pungent smell.

The original Tres Orix is pink in colour with a sweet smell.

“The public is cautioned against the patronage of the fake Tres Orix Forte since it contains unknown chemicals which can be harmful to the liver, the kidney and other organs or lead to the development of other complications,” it said.

The statement said the FDA, upon interrogation Madam Fordjour said the drugs were delivered to her by a Nigerian but investigation revealed that the boxes containing the medicines had her names inscribed on them.

Receipts and other documents found at Rita’s residence revealed that she has allegedly been importing fake versions of medicines such as Vermox, Zentel, Panadol, Anti-Tetanus and other medicines from China.

The accused, who is currently on bail, is assisting the Police in their investigations.

Source: GNA