Illegal opioids are flooding West Africa, fueling a growing public health crisis. Authorities in Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire are battling a surge in opioid abuse, threatening their youthful populations. A recent BBC Africa Eye investigation has uncovered the key players behind this trade.
The BBC investigation traced the source of these drugs to India. Specifically, Aveo Pharmaceuticals is a registered Indian company. The company manufactures an opioid brand called Tafrodol, which is being illegally distributed across West Africa.
Undercover reporters infiltrated Aveo Pharmaceutical’s operations and exposed director Vinod Sharma’s involvement in shipping these opioids. Despite legal restrictions, Aveo Pharmaceuticals continues supplying Ghana and other West African nations, violating Indian drug laws.
The investigation also linked Samos Pharma Ltd, an Accra-based company, to the importation of millions of opioid pills. Export data revealed that Samos Pharma, working with Westfin International, facilitated large-scale shipments from India to Ghanaian ports.
Specifically in Tamale, northern Ghana, the crisis has intensified. Local communities, unable to rely solely on law enforcement, have formed a task force to combat opioid dealers. Raids have uncovered large caches of illegal drugs, destroying lives and families.
How the Opioid Crisis Came About?
As governments struggle to curb the crisis, the root cause remained unchecked. The illegal supply chain, from manufacturers in India to smugglers in Ghana and Nigeria, continues to operate, prioritizing profit over public health.
These opioids, often taken for pain relief or to endure strenuous labor, have become a common substance of abuse. Overdoses are frequently fatal, with severe health consequences, including breathing problems and seizures.
Authorities are calling for stricter enforcement, better border security, and international cooperation to dismantle the networks fueling West Africa’s opioid epidemic. Meanwhile, affected communities remain on the frontlines, fighting to protect their youth from addiction.
Ghana’s Actions Against the Opioid Crisis
The Food and Drugs Authority in Ghana has stated that it has not registered or approved these substances for medical use in the country. It has also taken action against local entities linked to Aveo Pharmaceuticals. Samos Pharma, a registered importer, has been ordered to stop collaborating with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and its exporter, Westfin International Private Limited.
Furthermore, the FDA has suspended the processing of product registration applications from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which had partnered with Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer.
