Pharmacist Murdered in Constantine, Algeria; Union Calls for Urgent Security Measures

A pharmacist has been murdered in Constantine, Algeria, according to a statement released by the National Union of Pharmacists of Algeria (Snapo). The victim, identified as Mounir Nasri, was killed in the Daksi neighborhood of downtown Constantine. Snapo expressed its deep sadness and outrage over the crime, which it believes is linked to the trafficking of psychotropic substances.

The Snapo has condemned the violent attack and called for urgent security measures to protect pharmacists and their offices. The union emphasized that the safety of pharmacists is essential to ensuring the continuity of healthcare services and protecting citizens' rights to access pharmaceutical care in a safe environment. Snapo has demanded that authorities take immediate action to reinforce security measures and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Snapo's national bureau has requested that the government accelerate the implementation of a digital platform for managing and monitoring medical prescriptions for psychotropic medications. The union believes that this platform will help strengthen control and tracking mechanisms, reduce the falsification of prescriptions, and prevent the misuse of these medications. This would also help protect pharmacists from pressure, illegal practices, and risks associated with their professional duties.

The Snapo has expressed its full confidence in the Algerian justice system and government institutions. The union is awaiting the outcome of investigations into the murder and expects authorities to establish responsibility and impose penalties on those responsible. Snapo emphasized that the safety and physical integrity of pharmacists are not just professional demands but also essential conditions for ensuring the continuity of healthcare services.

The murder has sparked concern among healthcare professionals and the general public in Algeria. Snapo's demands for increased security measures and better protection for pharmacists have been echoed by many in the healthcare sector. The incident highlights the risks faced by pharmacists in the course of their duties, particularly in cases involving psychotropic substances.

The Algerian government has not yet commented on the incident or Snapo's demands. However, the union's call for urgent action is likely to put pressure on authorities to address the issue of pharmacist safety and security. The implementation of Snapo's proposed measures could help prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure a safer working environment for pharmacists.

The Snapo's efforts to improve pharmacist safety and security are ongoing. The union continues to work with authorities and stakeholders to address the issue and find solutions to prevent similar incidents. The case of Mounir Nasri serves as a reminder of the risks faced by healthcare professionals and the need for urgent action to ensure their safety and protection.

Key points

• The Snapo demands urgent security measures to protect pharmacists and their offices.
• A digital platform for managing and monitoring medical prescriptions for psychotropic medications is proposed.
• The safety and physical integrity of pharmacists are essential conditions for ensuring the continuity of healthcare services.