The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken decisive action against Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian drug manufacturer, following revelations of its role in smuggling unapproved opioid-based medications into West Africa.
The regulatory body has suspended the company’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification and placed restrictions on local pharmaceutical firms linked to its supply chain.
As part of its crackdown, the FDA has directed Samos Pharma, a Ghanaian importer, to cease all transactions with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International. Additionally, the registration of six products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited—intended to be manufactured by Aveo—has been put on hold.
Reaffirming its commitment to tackling opioid abuse, the FDA emphasized that enforcement measures, including seizures, fines, and prosecutions of unauthorized drug distributors, remain ongoing. The authority assured the public of its collaboration with law enforcement agencies to stem the influx of harmful pharmaceuticals into the country.
PSGH Calls for a Thorough Investigation
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has condemned the illegal importation of opioids and called for a comprehensive investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
The Society has urged regulatory and security bodies—including the FDA, the Pharmacy Council, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, the Narcotics Control Authority, and the National Intelligence Bureau—to intensify efforts in exposing and prosecuting individuals involved in the illicit trade.
“If any local pharmaceutical company is found to have breached regulatory protocols, appropriate sanctions should be enforced to maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain in Ghana,” PSGH stated in a press release issued on February 24.
PSGH’s concerns follow a BBC Africa Eye investigation that exposed how unapproved opioids are being smuggled into Ghana and other West African nations. The Society noted that despite existing regulations, Ghana has become a major transit point for these substances. It is therefore urging stronger border controls, stricter penalties, and international collaboration to combat the crisis.
The Society warned that substances such as tapentadol and carisoprodol pose serious public health risks, leading to addiction and socio-economic harm.
BBC Africa Eye Uncovers Illicit Opioid Trade
A BBC Africa Eye investigation revealed that Mumbai-based Aveo Pharmaceuticals has been manufacturing unlicensed, highly addictive opioids that are illegally shipped to West Africa. Disguised as legitimate medications, these drugs contain a dangerous mix of tapentadol, a potent opioid, and carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant banned in Europe due to its high potential for addiction.
This drug combination, not authorized for medical use anywhere in the world, has been linked to severe health complications, including breathing difficulties, seizures, and fatal overdoses. Despite the dangers, these opioids have become easily accessible street drugs in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Government Intensifies Anti-Smuggling Measures
In response to the growing crisis, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has outlined new measures aimed at curbing the influx of these harmful drugs into Ghana.
A special task force—comprising the FDA, the Narcotics Control Commission, Customs, and the GRA—has ramped up surveillance at the country’s entry points, leading to the disruption of a major consignment of tramadol and other opioid-based substances.
Authorities have pledged to maintain strict oversight to prevent the infiltration of illicit drugs into Ghana’s pharmaceutical market and safeguard public health.
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— FDAGhana (@fdaghana) February 26, 2025
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— FDAGhana (@fdaghana) February 26, 2025
