FIVE cartons of Coartem and a carton of Amoxicillin, intended for Malu’u rural health centre and Kilu’ufi Hospital in Malaita Province are missing without a trace.
The consignments have been reportedly stolen from the Kilu’ufi Hospital storeroom fortnight ago in what is believed to be an inside job.
The incident has shocked medical staff, many of whom are struggling to believe that such a significant quantity of essential drugs could disappear without a clue.
Report reaching the paper claimed, that the disappearance appears to be suspicious, as there were no signs of forced entry into the drug store.
This has raised concerns that the act may have been ‘premeditated.’
Coartem is a drug used to treat malaria, while amoxicillin is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections.
Malaita Province’s Director of Health, Dr. David Danitofea, confirmed the loss.
“Five cartons of Coartem and one carton of Amoxicillin are missing.”
He explained these supplies should support the hospital for few months.
“But since this had happened, it will have an impact on the hospital.
“We don’t know who is responsible,” Dr. Danitofea said, describing it as; “a very sad situation.”
He said, these are vital medications, and their loss will significantly affect the hospital’s operations and drug supply.
He added that the matter has been formally reported to the police for investigation.
Supervising Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Malaita, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea confirmed police have received the report and are actively investigating the matter.
“Our team visited the storage facility and confirmed there was no sign of forced entry,” Superintendent Ramosaea said.
“We are urging the public and anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist police with the investigation.”
It was revealed its not the first-time drugs have gone missing from Kiluufi Hospital.
And this raised concerns about security and accountability in the facility’s drug management system.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
