Samospharma denies BBC Africa Eye allegations, demands retraction

Samospharma Limited and its subsidiaries have strongly denied allegations made in a BBC Africa Eye investigative report, which accused the company of involvement in unlicensed opioid imports.

In a statement, the company described the claims as “baseless and defamatory,” suggesting that its corporate identity may have been fraudulently used in what it calls a case of criminal impersonation.

According to Samospharma, the BBC contacted them with claims of evidence linking the company to the trade of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol—two opioids flagged for illegal distribution. However, the company asserts that it has never imported or traded in these substances and made this clear in its response to the BBC.

“At no point did the BBC or BBC Africa Eye visit our offices or facilities to verify their claims, and we find this approach scandalous and libelous,” the statement said.

Samospharma emphasized its strict adherence to industry regulations under the Ghana Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Pharmacy Council, and other relevant regulatory bodies. The company announced that it has taken the following steps in response to the allegations:

• Engaged legal counsel and issued a cease-and-desist order to BBC Africa Eye and its partners.
• Filed formal complaints with the FDA Ghana, CID-Ghana Police, and the Indian High Commission to investigate potential impersonation.
• Prepared legal action against BBC Africa Eye and its collaborators for defamation.
• Pledged full cooperation with authorities to uncover those responsible for the illegal opioid trade.

Samospharma reaffirmed its stance against the illegal opioid trade and expressed support for efforts to combat drug abuse. However, the company maintains that its wrongful implication diverts attention from the actual perpetrators.

The company has demanded an immediate retraction and correction from BBC Africa Eye, insisting that it remains committed to distributing safe, effective, and high-quality medications while upholding ethical standards and public trust.