12 hrs ago
Karnataka SIT Intensifies Probe Into Interstate Fake Medicine Racket
Investigators in Karnataka are looking into a suspected fake-medicine business.
They believe Veeresh Kumar Jain may have helped plan and control it.
Jain is currently in jail while the investigation continues.
Officials want to question him about where the medicines came from and how they were sold.
The medicines allegedly reached more than 80 shops and private hospitals in Karnataka.
The suspected network may have earned more than Rs 15 crore in a year.
Officials searched places in six states for evidence about manufacturing, repackaging and delivery.
They are also checking whether foreign labels and wider networks were involved.
The Karnataka SIT plans to take alleged key accused Veeresh Kumar Jain into custody for further questioning.
Investigators suspect Jain planned and monitored the alleged counterfeit-medicine operation and directed Prashant and others.
Counterfeit tablets, syrups and other medicines were allegedly supplied to more than 80 medical shops and private hospitals across Karnataka.
The racket allegedly generated annual turnover exceeding Rs 15 crore, with investigators examining possible links beyond Karnataka.
The SIT and Drugs Control Department searched 10 locations across six states to trace the medicines’ supply chain and identify more suspects.
- Who
- The Karnataka Special Investigation Team, the Drugs Control Department, Veeresh Kumar Jain, Prashant and other accused persons are involved in the investigation.
- What
- Authorities are investigating an alleged interstate racket involving counterfeit tablets, syrups and other medicines.
- Where
- The investigation covers Karnataka and locations in Haryana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh and Telangana, including Bengaluru and Ramanagara district.
- When
- The racket came to light around two weeks ago, and coordinated raids were conducted on Friday.
- Why
- Investigators are seeking to trace the medicines’ sources, manufacturing and repackaging operations, distribution network and other people allegedly involved.
Key facts
- Lead agency
- Karnataka Special Investigation Team
- Key accused
- Veeresh Kumar Jain, currently in judicial custody at Bengaluru Central Prison
- Alleged reach
- More than 80 medical shops and private hospitals across Karnataka
- Alleged annual turnover
- More than Rs 15 crore
- Search operation
- Raids at 10 locations across Karnataka, Haryana, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh and Telangana
- Personnel involved
- Approximately 80 to 100 officials and staff
- Investigation focus
- Medicine sourcing, manufacturing, repackaging, distribution and possible foreign label supplies
Sources
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