US$17 640 drugs theft at City Coun­cil's main phar­macy

A Bulawayo man has appeared in court facing serious allegations of stealing medicines worth over US$17 000 from the city's main pharmacy, in a case that has raised concerns about internal controls in public health institutions.

Polite Nkomo (31) is accused of siphoning off drugs valued at approximately US$17 640 from the Bulawayo City Council pharmacy. He appeared before Isheunesu Mathoba, where he pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of US$200.

According to the State, investigations began after officials noticed discrepancies in medicine deliveries requested by clinics. A requisition from Magwegwe Clinic triggered a stock audit, which revealed that the same medication had already been issued earlier, raising suspicion.

Prosecutor Milton Ncube told the court that Nkomo allegedly collected large quantities of Kocitaf tablets on multiple occasions, falsely recording that they had been delivered to clinics including Magwegwe, Mzilikazi and Pelandaba. However, records at these clinics showed no such deliveries, and no supporting documentation could be found.

The court heard that the accused is also alleged to have falsified stock records and completed store issue vouchers to conceal the theft. None of the stolen medicines have been recovered.

As part of his bail conditions, Nkomo must reside at his given address, avoid interfering with witnesses, and report weekly to Khumalo Police Station. The case continues as authorities pursue further investigations into the missing drugs and possible systemic weaknesses.