A joint investigation by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal at the premises of a wholesaler in Kolkata recently led to the seizure of fake drugs worth Rs 6.6 million.
The investigation has led to the arrest of a woman identified as the owner of a wholesale firm who was arrested by the Drugs Inspector of CDSCO, in the East Zone, the Union Health Ministry said in a statement.
The raid, conducted at the ‘Care and Cure For You’ company in Kolkata led to the seizure of a large number of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other suspected fake drugs.
These drugs, which are listed as manufactured in different countries including Ireland, Turkey, USA, and Bangladesh, were found to have no documents confirming that they were imported into India legally.
If there are no such documents, these drugs are considered fake, said the Ministry.
The investigative team also found several empty packaging materials, which again raised concerns about the authenticity of the seized products, the statement said.
The total market value of seized drugs is estimated at Rs 6.60 crore, it said.
To ensure proper investigation, drug samples were sent for quality testing. The remaining amount seized is kept in safe custody by CDSCO, the statement said.
The court ordered the owner to be detained for 14 days and allowed further interrogation. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing.
“The Department of Health and Family Welfare remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. The seizure and ongoing investigation underscores the government’s zero tolerance policy for the circulation of illegal and substandard drugs in the market,” the statement said. .
CDSCO and state authorities will continue to work together to combat the menace posed by counterfeit drugs and protect the interests of consumers, it said.
