In a major crackdown on counterfeit medicines, a large consignment of suspected spurious anti-cancer and anti-diabetic drugs was seized during a joint operation by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the West Bengal Drugs Control Directorate in Kolkata.
During the operation, authorities confiscated a substantial quantity of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other medications, valued at approximately Rs. 6.60 crore.
The drugs, labelled as originating from countries such as Ireland, Turkey, the USA, and Bangladesh, were found without any documentation to verify their legitimate importation into India, raising serious concerns about their authenticity.
Investigators also discovered empty packaging materials, further questioning the legitimacy of the products.
Samples of the seized drugs have been sent for quality testing, while the rest of the consignment is being held under safe custody by the CDSCO.
The investigation led to the arrest of the accused, a woman identified as the proprietor of the wholesale firm. She is currently in judicial custody for 14 days, with further interrogation and investigation underway.
The Health Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting public health, emphasising a zero-tolerance policy toward counterfeit and substandard drugs.
