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Harriet Tumusiime, arrested
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By Our Reporter
Mbarara
The National Drug Authority (NDA) has arrested Tumusiime Harriet, an enrolled comprehensive nurse, for the illegal possession and sale of government drugs clearly labeled “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale.” According to NDA spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri, Tumusiime was apprehended in Kakoba, Alliance Cell, Mbarara City, where she resides and operates a private drug shop.
“Through intelligence-led operations, we found Nurse Tumusiime in possession of assorted government-labeled medicines and medical supplies, which she was selling to the public,” Rwamwiri said.
Some of the recivered drugs
Among the items recovered were cardiac aspirin, labor-inducing drugs, multivitamins for malnourished children, malaria testing kits, and surgical gloves — all intended for free distribution in government health facilities.
Rwamwiri noted that Tumusiime is believed to be employed at Rubaya Health Centre II in Ibanda District, while simultaneously running the illegal drug business from her shop in Mbarara.
She appeared before the Mbarara Grade One Magistrate’s Court on Thursday and was remanded until July 1, 2025, when her case will be heard.
“This arrest is part of NDA’s broader crackdown on the theft and illegal sale of government drugs. Since March 2024, we have recovered stolen medicines valued at over UGX 6 billion,” Rwamwiri added.
Abias Rwamiri the NDA spokesperson
Related cases in Ankole
Tumusiime’s arrest adds to a growing list of cases involving the theft and diversion of public medicines in the Ankole sub-region.
In January 2025, the in-charge of Kicheche Health Centre III, Tadeo Tumwebaze, in Kitagwenda District, was arrested following reports linking him to missing government medicines allegedly being sold in Ibanda District. He was later released on police bond due to insufficient evidence, although investigations are still ongoing.
Additionally, two other public officials — Ronald Mukamasimwe, an assistant inventory management officer at Ntara Health Centre IV, and Julius Businge, a health information assistant at Mahyoro Health Centre III — were interdicted and placed under investigation by the State House Health Monitoring Unit.
“We urge communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving government medicines. These drugs are meant to save lives, not to be sold,” Rwamwiri appealed.
The NDA has reiterated its commitment to continuing targeted enforcement operations across the country in collaboration with the Police, Ministry of Health, and the judiciary.
Torch Media Africa
