As part of the fight against illicit drug trafficking, the Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (ARP) and the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) conducted a major operation on August 18 and 19, 2025, which dismantled several distribution networks for substandard drugs and unauthorized dietary supplements. This coordinated mission enabled the authorities to deal a significant blow to pharmaceutical counterfeiting networks.

Significant seizures in several districts of Dakar

The field operations were conducted in the strategic districts of Grand-Yoff, Medina, Thiaroye, Foire and Seat Urbam. A total of 438 kg of prohibited drugs were seized, representing an estimated market value of 503,000,974 CFA francs.

Among the seized products was a disturbing variety of illegal substances: painkillers, anti-inflammatories, abortifacients and cough suppressants, as well as antihypertensives, antidiabetics and sexual stimulants. Authorities also discovered breast and genital enlargement products, dermocorticoids, antifungals, equipment for female cosmetic surgery and other dangerous substances.

An urgent call for citizen vigilance

The ARP emphasizes that these drugs, often sold outside the regulated channel, pose serious risks to public health. Recent assessment and training sessions conducted by the agency have highlighted a worrying increase in cases of kidney and liver diseases directly linked to the consumption of these counterfeit products.

The Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency reaffirms its commitment to making pharmaceutical sovereignty a strategic pillar to guarantee equitable access to quality, safe and affordable medicines, in accordance with the guidelines of the highest State authorities.

In this context, the ARP is launching an urgent appeal to all citizens, reminding them that pharmacies remain the only authorized points of sale for the purchase of medicines.

The ARP also wishes to congratulate the FDS for their professionalism, their vigilance and their constant commitment in this fight which is essential to the preservation of the health of the population.