Minister warns of illegal drugs being imported as vitamins

New bill targets illegal drug imports, weak controls

A surge in mixed-drug use among young people, involving over-the-counter medicines and illicit substances, is causing serious concern at the highest levels of government, as a minister warned in the House of Assembly on Tuesday of dangerous health consequences and expanding illegal supply routes. Minister of People Empowerment Adrian Forde said the administration, particularly Prime Minister Mia Mottley, has been losing sleep over the pattern of…

Minister warns of illegal drugs being imported as vitamins

Illegal drugs such as “mollies” are being imported into Barbados under the guise of vitamins. That’s according to Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Adrian Forde. Minister Forde, a professional pharmacist, says under the Barbados Medical Powers Bill 2026, medicines must be exactly what they say on the label. He emphasised the need for what he calls pharmaco vigilance. Minister Forde says the new legislation allows for tighter regul…