… Two staff suspended as investigation unfolds
An investigation is currently underway at the Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH) following an alleged attempt to steal medication from the facility, Newsday has learned.
QMMH Public Relations Officer, Thakane Mapeshoane Sepipi, confirmed the incident this week but declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation.
Sepipi did, however, reveal that the stolen medications included antibiotic injections. “I cannot confirm whether this was an isolated incident or part of a pattern. The investigation will hopefully shed more light on this,” she stated.
She also confirmed that a case has been opened with the Lithabaneng Police Station in Maseru and that two pharmacy support staff members have been suspended pending the investigation.
Dr. Mojakisane Ramafikeng of the Lesotho Medical, Dental, and Pharmacy Council stated that the council has not yet received official notification of the incident but expressed concern, as the matter falls under its mandate to protect patient safety from malpractice.
Dr. Ramafikeng added that once the council receives an official report, it will launch its own investigation and take appropriate action against any members found to be involved.
He indicated that the theft of medication means patients who go to health facilities expecting treatment may find none available and said this is a serious issue.
“We urge those responsible to ensure that anyone found guilty is held accountable,” he said.
He further explained that stolen medication can be misused, leading to various health risks, including antimicrobial resistance, a growing global crisis. He emphasised the importance of proper diagnosis and prescriptions by medical professionals, warning that improper use of antibiotics could exacerbate resistance and compromise treatment options.
If medication access and pharmacy management are not improved, Dr. Ramafikeng said, this issue will persist, including here in Lesotho, where antimicrobial resistance is already a concern.
Ntsoaki Motaung is an award-winning health journalist from Lesotho, specializing in community health stories with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as HIV. She has contributed to platforms like “Be in the KNOW,” highlighting issues such as the exclusion of people with disabilities from HIV prevention efforts in Lesotho.
In addition to her journalism, Ntsoaki serves as the Country Coordinator for the Regional Media Action Plan Support Network (REMAPSEN). She is also a 2023 CPHIA Journalism Fellow.
