Authorities in Bengaluru are investigating a suspected counterfeit medicine racket allegedly supplying fake and repackaged critical medicines to more than 90 hospitals and clinics, raising serious concerns over patient safety.
Suspected fake medicines worth ₹5 crore seized
Investigators have reportedly seized suspected counterfeit medicines and medical equipment valued at around ₹5 crore during the probe.
The medicines are suspected to have been either manufactured fraudulently or repackaged and supplied through a network that allegedly reached several healthcare facilities.
The scale of the seizures has raised concerns about how such products could have entered the medical supply chain and potentially reached patients.
Over 90 hospitals and clinics under scrutiny
Authorities are examining the supply network and trying to establish how the suspected medicines were distributed to more than 90 hospitals and clinics.
Investigators are also checking records, suppliers and distribution channels to determine the extent of the operation and whether patients may have been exposed to the suspected counterfeit products.
The probe is expected to focus on the origin of the medicines, those involved in their distribution and the financial network behind the alleged racket.
Interstate links being investigated
Officials are also examining possible interstate connections as part of the investigation. The suspected network may have involved suppliers and distribution channels operating beyond Karnataka.
Counterfeit medicines can pose serious risks because patients and healthcare professionals may be unaware that a product is not genuine, particularly when packaging and labelling are designed to resemble legitimate medicines.
The investigation is continuing as authorities work to trace the suspected supply chain and identify everyone involved.
The case has also highlighted the importance of strict checks across pharmaceutical distribution networks to prevent counterfeit medicines from reaching hospitals and patients.