Auki police have cracked an alleged network of pharmacy theft of drugs from the Kilu’ufi Provincial Hospital on Malaita.
The case seems to confirm widespread suspicion that drugs from the Government Pharmacy store being stolen and sold to shops and individuals, often depriving the National Referral Hospital of live-saving drugs.
Police told Solomon Star the individual was arrested at Kilu’ufi Hospital last week. It is not clear whether charges have been laid.
The young man is said to suffer from delusion – a false belief or judgment about external reality, held despite incontrovertible evidence to the contrary, occurring especially in mental conditions.
His conditions are known to police.
The sale of pharmaceutical drugs from the hospital pharmacy is also said to be widespread, especially around the Auki main market.
On sale are Panadol tablets as well as Malaria tablets, stashed away in small plastic sachets or containers.
They are selling them for up to $10 or more. Over dozing is the main fear from the community.
Meanwhile, there are reports the use of kwaso – the local home brewed alcohol – has spread across local villages across Malaita.
On a return trip last Saturday, a police officer had to physically remove the drinks from young people using the drinks in public places.
Some community members simply look away, according to some. It is getting worse, not better, some said.
Community leaders will have to work closely with police to combat the situation, police said.
By Alfred Sasako
