Samospharma Hits Back at BBC, Demands Retraction Over alleged ‘False’ Opioid Claims
In the wake of a damning BBC Africa Eye investigation that exposed the infiltration of unregulated opioids into Ghana, one of the companies at the center of the allegations, Samospharma Limited, has issued a strong rebuttal, categorically denying any involvement in the illegal trade of tapentadol, carisoprodol, or any similar substances.
A Firm Denial Amidst a Growing Crisis
The BBC investigation and a widely circulated exposé by Bright Simons claimed that certain pharmaceutical companies, including Samospharma, were instrumental in the importation and distribution of dangerous opioid combinations into West Africa. However, in an exclusive response to NorvanReports, Samospharma has dismissed these allegations as entirely baseless.
Following the release of the documentary, NorvanReports submitted 12 critical questions to Samospharma, seeking clarity on the company’s alleged role in the opioid trade. The company responded in detail, maintaining that it has never been involved in the importation or distribution of the substances in question.
“We categorically deny any dealings with the entities and have never imported the said opioids into any jurisdiction,” the company stated.
Furthermore, the company has taken legal steps to report the matter to the CID-Ghana Police, requesting an investigation into the claims.
Samospharma Issues Official Press Release
On February 23, 2025, Samospharma issued an official press release, strongly refuting the allegations made in the BBC Africa Eye report. The company described the claims as defamatory, baseless, and a serious act of criminal impersonation.
“At no point did the BBC/BBC Africa Eye enter the offices/facilities of Samospharma to ascertain the veracity of their claims, and this we find very scandalous and libelous,” the company stated.
The company reiterated that it has never imported or traded in Tapentadol or Carisoprodol, either individually or in combination. Furthermore, Samospharma emphasized its strict adherence to Ghana’s FDA, Pharmacy Council, and all other regulatory guidelines.
Legal Action and Demand for Retraction
In response to the allegations, Samospharma has taken the following actions: ✔ Issued a cease-and-desist order to BBC Africa Eye and its partners. ✔ Filed formal complaints with FDA Ghana, CID-Ghana Police, and the Indian High Commission regarding suspected criminal impersonation. ✔ Prepared legal action against BBC and its collaborators for defamation. ✔ Cooperating fully with authorities to identify the real perpetrators behind the illegal opioid trade.
Additionally, Samospharma has demanded an immediate retraction and correction from BBC Africa Eye, arguing that the misleading claims have damaged their reputation and diverted attention from the real offenders in the illicit pharmaceutical market.
No Links to Indian Drug Manufacturers
One of the core allegations from the BBC and Simons’ report linked Samospharma to Aveo Pharmaceuticals, PRG Pharma, and Westfin, Indian firms accused of flooding Ghana and Nigeria with unapproved opioids. In response, Samospharma firmly rejected any business relationship with these entities.
“Samospharma or any of its affiliates have no business relationships, past or present, with Aveo Pharmaceuticals, PRG Pharma, or Westfin,” the company asserted.
Regulatory Compliance and Transparency
The company insists that all pharmaceutical imports handled under its name have been fully compliant with Ghana’s regulatory requirements, receiving clearance from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
“All our imports go through the Ghana FDA and have received full regulatory approval before clearance. We confirm that no unregistered pharmaceuticals have ever been brought in under our company’s name,” Samospharma stated.
When asked whether they would be willing to publicly disclose import records to clear their name, the company responded affirmatively, adding that these records are available for independent verification at Ghana’s Customs Division.
However, the company noted that the CID-Ghana Police have not formally requested these records as part of their investigation.
Could Samospharma Be a Victim of Criminal Impersonation?
One of the most striking elements of Samospharma’s response is the suggestion that their company’s name may have been misused by third-party logistics providers or intermediaries involved in the illicit drug trade.
“We cannot tell at this stage. The case is reported to the police, and investigations are ongoing. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of criminal impersonation,” the company stated.
What Next for Ghana’s Pharmaceutical Sector?
The allegations against Samospharma, whether substantiated or not, highlight the urgent need for tighter oversight within Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry. If the BBC Africa Eye investigation is accurate, then major regulatory failures have allowed unapproved opioids to infiltrate Ghana’s healthcare system.
However, if Samospharma’s claims hold, then the company may be a victim of misinformation or criminal impersonation, raising concerns about the integrity of drug importation records and oversight mechanisms.
As Ghana grapples with these revelations, one thing remains clear: the country’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework is facing its toughest test yet. Whether Samospharma is a culprit or a victim, this case is likely to shape the future of drug import policies for years to come.
The Unanswered Questions
With both sides standing firm, the next steps will be crucial in determining the truth behind these allegations.
- Will the CID-Ghana Police issue an official statement clearing Samospharma or confirming any wrongdoing?
- Will the BBC respond to Samospharma’s rebuttal or provide additional evidence to support its claims?
- If criminal impersonation is a factor, who is truly behind these opioid imports?
Until these questions are answered, Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector remains under intense scrutiny, with Samospharma fighting to protect its reputation amid one of the most explosive drug scandals in recent history.
The NorvanReports team will continue to monitor developments as they unfold.
Below are the questions and answers for your perusal:
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