Delhi Police Uncover Nationwide Counterfeit Medicine Ring

A major counterfeit medicine operation has been dismantled by the Delhi Police Crime Branch, leading to the arrest of six individuals linked to a nationwide syndicate. This crackdown follows a two-month investigation triggered by a tip-off regarding a shipment of counterfeit medications, including Clavam, ZeroDol SP, and Pantop, packaged to resemble products from reputable brands such as Johnson & Johnson and GSK.

On July 30, 2023, police intercepted a vehicle at a petrol station in Civil Lines, New Delhi, where they discovered counterfeit medicines concealed inside. The suspects, identified as Mohd. Alam and Mohd. Saleem from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, were taken into custody, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation. Subsequent raids across multiple locations, including Solan in Himachal Pradesh and Jind in Haryana, uncovered a range of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and manufacturing equipment.

Police seized approximately 150 kg of loose tablets and 20 kg of loose capsules, confirming the contents were primarily composed of chalk powder. A police source stated, “They were made of chalk powder; nothing else.” Representatives from Johnson & Johnson and GSK corroborated the findings, noting discrepancies in the packaging and stamping processes that did not meet their standards.

The investigation revealed that the syndicate had been operational for at least two to three years, distributing counterfeit drugs through pharmacies and unregulated markets. Harsh Indora, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), stated, “Investigation is ongoing to identify victims and other suppliers.” As authorities delved deeper, they discovered the counterfeit drugs were often sourced through social media platforms, where initial contacts were made.

The mastermind behind the operation, Rajesh Mishra, previously arrested in another counterfeit drug case, allegedly leveraged his experience in drug manufacturing to establish production facilities. His accomplice, Parmanand, ran a clandestine unit in Jind operating under the name ‘Lukshmi Maa’. Payments for counterfeit medicines were frequently processed via mobile wallets or through the bank accounts of relatives, allowing the syndicate to remain undetected.

The police identified a multi-layered structure within the operation. Mishra reportedly procured counterfeit packaging that mimicked well-known pharmaceutical brands. The foils and dyes necessary for authentic-looking packaging were sourced from Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. The manufacturing of counterfeit tablets, especially Ultracet, occurred at Parmanand’s facility in Jind.

Once the counterfeit products were produced, they were transported via railway to Gorakhpur, where handlers distributed them to local dealers like Alam and Saleem. The use of regular couriers and personal vehicles was designed to evade suspicion.

DCP Indora emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “The group used trusted medical storefronts and supplied directly to unlicensed rural practitioners.” The ongoing investigation is expected to reveal more about the syndicate’s extensive network and operations across various states, including Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

This significant bust highlights the dangers posed by counterfeit medicines, which can jeopardize public health and safety. Authorities are now focused on tracking down additional suppliers and identifying the full scope of the syndicate’s operations.