Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Shaying Sheu has directed the Drug Inspector to verify and take action against pharmacies operating without valid licences in Zunheboto, following a joint inspection that found 10 of 17 pharmacies checked in the town allegedly functioning without valid licences.
Chairing the District Level Narcotics Coordination Centre (NCORD) meeting on Monday, the ADC expressed concern over continued violations despite previous inspection drives and directed regular inspections, proper documentation and closure of establishments found operating illegally. He also called for strict compliance with prescription requirements, including mentioning the names of prescribing medical practitioners.
The meeting reviewed concerns over the alleged diversion of Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) medicines. Chief Medical Officer Dr G. Viholi Sema said inspections had raised concerns about registered beneficiaries allegedly selling prescribed medicines, but no one had been caught red-handed. The district has 1,150 registered OST beneficiaries, including 893 in Zunheboto town.
The ADC asked the Health Department to strengthen monitoring and prevent misuse. The meeting was also informed that the district has only one rehabilitation centre.
SDPO K. Phyolumo Lotha reported that police seized 580 Spasmo capsules and arrested two persons in drug-related cases during October.
The ADC urged departments to intensify public awareness, enforcement and coordinated action against substance abuse.
