CPPA demands justice for murdered pharmacist, declares mourning

The Community Practice Pharmacists Association (CPPA) has urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure the swift arrest and prosecution of those behind the murder of Mohammed Zia-UlHak Zibrim, a pharmacist. 

Zibrim, the Chief Executive Officer of Zimax Pharmacy in Bolgatanga. was shot and killed in cold blood on the night of Thursday, June 5, 2025, just metres from his home after work. 

His death has shocked the pharmaceutical community, drawing strong condemnation from professional bodies and civil society. 

In a statement, CPPA National Chairman Dr Emmanuel Kwaku Ireland called the murder “heinous and tragic,” underscoring rising threats to community pharmacists. 

The CPPA declared a nationwide seven-day mourning from Thursday, June 12, with pharmacists to wear red armbands/headbands and display red fabrics in pharmacies as symbols of grief and solidarity. 

The CPPA warned of growing violence, burglary, and homicide targeting pharmacists, cautioning that insecurity could limit pharmacy services, especially at night, to the detriment of public health. 

“Any delay or inaction will only serve to intimidate pharmacies, pharmacists across all ethnicities, forcing them to limit their services to daytime hours and jeopardise public health. Enough is enough; swift justice must be served now,” the statement said. 

The CPPA urged the government and security agencies to introduce enhanced protection for healthcare workers, especially in the Upper East Region, where the killing occurred. 

Zibrim, remembered as committed and selfless, often extended services beyond standard hours. 

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family of our esteemed colleague,” the CPPA added. 

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) is reportedly working closely with CPPA to push for systemic reforms protecting pharmacists nationwide.