SRIKAKULAM: In a major breakthrough, JR Puram police arrested a gang of eight individuals, including employees of top pharma firms, for the theft of Semaglutide, an anti-diabetic and weight-loss medicine, from Dr Reddy’s Laboratories in Pydibheemavaram. The stolen substance, around 450 grams, is valued at over ₹2 crore.

Key accused include:

  • Dronadulu Suresh (31) – Chemist at Dr Reddy’s

  • Gajula Venkata Raghavendra (33) – Warehouse staff

  • Guntaka Suresh Reddy (40) – Chemist at MSN Pharma, Hyderabad (main receiver)

  • Others include chemists and analysts from various pharma firms in Hyderabad

    • According to SP KV Maheswara Reddy, the Semaglutide powder was produced on Feb 17, 2025, and stored in the warehouse freezer. It was found missing on Feb 23. Later, in May, an audit revealed 3.38 kg of Palladium Acetate, worth ₹60 lakh, also missing.

    Semaglutide is used for type 2 diabetes and weight management, mimicking GLP-1 hormone, and can be injected or taken orally. Palladium Acetate is a crucial catalyst in organic chemical reactions.

    The police formed three special teams under Inspector M. Avatharam. The investigation led to the recovery of 440 gms of stolen Semaglutide and 460 gms of fake powder from the gang.

    The case highlights a worrying breach in pharmaceutical security and potential risks of counterfeit medicine in circulation.