Did Delhi Police Just Uncover a Major Fake Drug Syndicate?
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Synopsis
A daring raid by the AGS of Delhi Police has unveiled a significant counterfeit drug network across northern India. Six arrests, including the mastermind, highlight the urgent battle against fake medicines that threaten lives. Discover the details of this extensive operation and the implications for public health.
Key Takeaways
- Six individuals arrested, including the mastermind.
- Counterfeit drugs pose a significant threat to public health.
- Advanced machinery was used in the production of fake medications.
- The operation spanned across multiple states in India.
- Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full network.
New Delhi, Aug 6 (NationPress) In a significant achievement, the Anti-Gang Squad (AGS) of the Delhi Police’s Crime Branch has dismantled a large-scale counterfeit drug operation that spanned northern India, apprehending six suspects, including the mastermind.
This syndicate was engaged in the production and distribution of fake life-saving medications from renowned pharmaceutical companies such as Johnson & Johnson, GSK, and Alkem.
Based on intelligence gathered by HC Jitender, a team led by Inspector Pawan Kumar, under the supervision of ACP Bhagwati Prasad and DCP Harsh Indora, set up a sting operation at a CNG station in Civil Lines on July 30. They intercepted a WagonR from Moradabad, UP, carrying counterfeit medications.
Two individuals, Mohd. Alam and Mohd. Saleem, were immediately arrested. Representatives from GSK and Johnson & Johnson confirmed the medications were indeed counterfeit. Further investigations and digital footprints led authorities to illegal manufacturing sites in Jind, Haryana, and Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.
A substantial cache of counterfeit drugs was seized, including Ultracet (9015 tablets), Augmentin 625 (6100 tablets), Pan-40 (1200 tablets), Betnovate-N cream (1166 tubes), Amoxycillin (25650), PCM (5900), PAN DSR (2700), Injection Kanacort (74 Boxes (Steroid)), and Proyco SPAS (12000 tablets), among others.
One of the factories, ‘Laxmi Maa Pharma’, was discovered to be using advanced machinery and counterfeit packaging materials to produce fake medications mimicking well-known brands. The mastermind, Rajesh Mishra from Gorakhpur, leveraged his pharmaceutical background to establish a nationwide operation.
He coordinated with accomplices across Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The illegal medications were transported via rail and personal couriers to states like UP and Delhi. Financial dealings were executed through hawala and relatives’ accounts to evade detection.
The apprehended individuals comprise Mohd. Alam, Mohd. Saleem, Md. Zuvaier, Prem Shankar, Parmanand (factory owner), and Rajesh Mishra (the kingpin). Police seized over 1 lakh counterfeit tablets, raw materials, machinery, empty boxes, and foil rolls.
“All six suspects have been taken into custody. Investigations are ongoing to identify the entire network, including the sources of raw materials, financial transactions, and other accomplices,” stated DCP Harsh Indora.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the relentless efforts of law enforcement in combating the counterfeit drug epidemic. This operation serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting public health and safety. The Nation stands firmly with initiatives that safeguard the integrity of pharmaceuticals and ensure that justice is served.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the operation carried out by Delhi Police?
The Delhi Police's Anti-Gang Squad busted a counterfeit drug racket, leading to the arrest of six individuals involved in the manufacturing and distribution of fake medications.
What types of counterfeit drugs were seized?
Authorities recovered a large quantity of counterfeit drugs, including Ultracet, Augmentin, and Amoxycillin, among others.
Who was the mastermind behind the operation?
Rajesh Mishra from Gorakhpur was identified as the kingpin of the counterfeit drug syndicate.
How did the police carry out the operation?
The police conducted a sting operation based on intelligence, successfully intercepting a vehicle transporting counterfeit medicines.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network, including the sources of raw materials and financial transactions.
