An order for 124,000 syringes placed in 2020 by the New Public Health Pharmacy (NPSP-CI) was never fulfilled. Seven defendants, including former officials of the institution, are now appearing before the Economic and Financial Criminal Division (PPEF) to answer charges of embezzlement of public funds, forgery and use of forged documents, money laundering, and criminal conspiracy .

The case concerns a 252 million FCFA transaction paid to the company Ivoire Seringues Pharma (ISP) for the delivery of medical equipment intended for hospitals and vaccination campaigns. According to the prosecutor's office, the syringes were never delivered, and the documents presented by the supplier contain blatant irregularities.

The former director general of NPSP, who was remanded in custody on February 17, 2026 , is at the heart of the case. Several of his former colleagues are also appearing in court, some free under judicial supervision, while others remain at large.

The prosecution is highlighting a system of fraudulent maneuvers aimed at diverting public funds to the detriment of essential health needs.

This case quickly attracted public attention, particularly due to its impact on the availability of medical supplies in Ivorian healthcare facilities. The issue of traceability and oversight of public procurement in the health sector has become paramount, and the PPEF's investigations could uncover significant shortcomings in supplier procurement and verification procedures.

The court will examine the evidence and the prosecution's arguments at the next hearing scheduled for March 3, 2026. According to observers, this case could serve as a strong signal against corruption in the field of public health and strengthen control mechanisms in the procurement of essential medical equipment.



For Ivorians, this is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and vigilance in the management of public resources, especially when the health of the population is at stake. The case of the undelivered syringes could mark a turning point in the fight against fraud and mismanagement in the medical sector.