FDA shuts down facilities over sale of laughing gas, shisha, codeine products in Nungua

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has closed down three facilities in Nungua for allegedly selling unapproved and controlled products.

The FDA, in a statement shared on Facebook on Monday, July 6, 2026, said the enforcement action followed months of investigations that uncovered the sale of nitrous oxide, popularly known as “laughing gas,” Benylin mixed with codeine, a controlled medication, and unregistered shisha products.

The Authority said the operation forms part of its mandate to protect public health and ensure that businesses comply with regulations governing the distribution and sale of medicines and other regulated substances.

According to the FDA, the affected facilities were found to be dealing in products that were either not registered or subject to strict regulatory controls, creating potential health risks for consumers.

The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening surveillance, investigations and enforcement measures against individuals and businesses involved in the sale of illegal or unauthorised products.

“This is part of our mandate to protect public health and safety,” the FDA stated.

The FDA further urged members of the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities involving regulated products to the appropriate authorities to support efforts aimed at safeguarding consumer health.