Archive · 16 Sep 2026
Karnataka Considers CBI Probe Into Multi-Crore Fake Drug Racket
Authorities in Karnataka found a large group involved in selling fake and expired medicines.
The medicines were worth about Rs 5 crore.
They were seized in Bengaluru South district in August.
Investigators believe the medicines were made in other states and brought to Karnataka.
Five people have been arrested.
A key suspect is reportedly in Azerbaijan.
Officials are trying to find a way to bring him back.
Karnataka may ask the CBI to investigate because the case crosses state borders.
The health minister also said the punishments for such crimes may not be strong enough.
The Karnataka government is considering transferring the counterfeit drug investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The racket was uncovered near Bidadi and has suspected interstate links.
A Special Investigation Team has arrested five people in the case.
One key suspect, R Prashant, is reportedly staying in Azerbaijan, where immigration authorities have seized his passport.
Counterfeit and expired medicines worth around Rs 5 crore were seized in Bengaluru South district in August.
- Who
- The Karnataka government, a Special Investigation Team, the Central Bureau of Investigation, and suspects in the alleged counterfeit drug racket.
- What
- Authorities are investigating a multi-crore counterfeit and expired medicine racket and considering transferring the case to the CBI.
- When
- The medicines were seized in August, and the Karnataka government was considering the CBI transfer on Wednesday.
- Where
- The seizure occurred in Bengaluru South district near Bidadi; a key suspect is reportedly in Azerbaijan.
- Why
- The case allegedly involves medicines manufactured in other states, interstate distribution, and a key suspect located abroad.
- Estimated seizure value
- Around Rs 5 crore
- Medicines seized
- Counterfeit and expired medicines
- Seizure location
- Bengaluru South district near Bidadi
- Arrests
- Five people arrested by the SIT
- Investigation option
- Transfer to the Central Bureau of Investigation
- Key suspect location
- Azerbaijan
- Legal concern
- Health Minister U T Khader said penalties for counterfeit-medicine offences were inadequate