Gambia Seeks Legal Action Against Indian Drug Company Over Contaminated Syrups Tied to Kidney Injuries

By Fatou Sillah

The Gambian government announced on Wednesday that it is pursuing legal action against an Indian pharmaceutical company implicated in the export of contaminated syrups linked to cases of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the country.

Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow informed the National Assembly that the government is coordinating with Indian authorities to file a formal case against the firm responsible. “Government is working with Indian authorities to file a case against the Indian pharmacy firm that exported the killer syrup to The Gambia,” he said.

In addition, VP Jallow confirmed that the Medicines Control Agency (MCA) has blacklisted Maiden Pharmaceuticals, banning all of its products from the Gambian market. “Moreover, the MCA has blacklisted Maiden Pharmaceuticals and banned all its products in the Gambian market,” he said.

The vice president also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical oversight, including the near completion of a National Medicine Control Laboratory equipped to enhance regulatory monitoring.

“Currently, the Medicine Unrelated Products Act 2014 is under review to ensure MCA operates as an autonomous entity,” he said. “Also, the AKI case is in court, and court rulings will determine further government action regarding justice, compensation, and healing for victims and families.”

VP Jallow also provided updates on broader government initiatives aimed at investigating and addressing corruption and fraud across multiple sectors, emphasizing a commitment to accountability and public safety.