Drug inspector shown the door over 'pharma complaint'

The Sindh Health Department has relieved Drug Inspector Ghulam Ali Lakho of his current responsibilities following a complaint by the pharmaceutical industry alleging misuse of authority, harassment of pharma companies and unlawful demands. Lakho, who also held the additional charge of Chief Inspector of Drugs, Sindh, has been directed to report to the Health Department. Health Secretary Tahir Hussain Sangi issued a notification formally relieving him of his existing responsibilities. The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) had taken up the matter with the authorities, submitting a written complaint to the provincial chief secretary, Health Department and other senior officials on September 10, 2026. In its complaint, the PPMA accused Lakho of allegedly misusing his authority, making unlawful demands and obstructing the lawful business activities of pharmaceutical companies, their authorised distributors and sellers. The association alleged that some companies had faced threats of stock seizure, sealing of premises, bans on sales and legal action without a report from a government analyst or evidence of any offence. The PPMA described the alleged actions as violations of the drug inspector's powers and established legal procedures and urged the authorities to intervene and take action. The association also said the pharmaceutical industry played an important role in the country's economy and healthcare sector, warning that unlawful disruptions to the sale and distribution of medicines could lead to shortages of essential drugs and harm the public. According to officials, the Health Department reviewed the PPMA's complaint along with other complaints received against Lakho. Following approval from the health minister, the department decided to relieve him of his current responsibilities. The PPMA had also sent copies of its complaint to the chief minister, health and population welfare minister, health secretary, director general of the Anti-Corruption Establishment Sindh, director general of the FIA Sindh, additional director of DRAP Karachi, chairman of the Sindh PQCB and secretary of the Sindh PQCB, among other relevant authorities.