Cumilla: Raid on Fake Medicine Factory, 1 Arrested

PNN News Desk, Cumilla

In Cumilla, a large quantity of fake and unapproved medicines, raw materials for drug production, and manufacturing equipment have been seized in a joint operation based on intelligence from the National Security Intelligence (NSI). A person has been arrested for alleged involvement in the production and supply network of counterfeit medicines.

The matter was confirmed on Saturday (June 27) by Mohammod Rakibul Islam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Cumilla Sadar South Model Police Station.

Police said that on Friday (June 26), from evening to night, a special operation was conducted in the Shreeballavpur area beside the Paduar Bazar World Road in Sadar South Upazila targeting a pickup van. During the search, a large quantity of fake capsules, tablets, and syrups made for both children and adults were recovered. The total number of seized medicines was 18,660 pieces.

In addition, around 100 kg of chemical powder used for manufacturing medicines, 7 liters of liquid chemicals, nearly 20,000 medicine labels, 15 kg of foil paper, and three machines used in counterfeit medicine production were also seized.

During the operation, Junayed Islam, a resident of Shreenibas area of Sadar South Upazila, was arrested for his involvement in the production and marketing of counterfeit medicines.

Later, the seized goods were taken to Sadar South Model Police Station. Under the supervision of the Upazila administration and in the presence of Assistant Director of the District Drug Administration Fakhrul Islam, an inventory list was prepared.

In this regard, Assistant Director of the District Drug Administration Fakhrul Islam filed a case at Sadar South Model Police Station.

OC Mohammod Rakibul Islam said that the seized evidence has been confiscated and legal procedures are being completed. The arrested person is being prepared to be sent to court. Investigation is ongoing to identify others involved in the counterfeit medicine production and supply network.