The Istanbul Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit conducted a series of operations between April 15 and 25 to prevent counterfeiting activities in the pharmaceutical sector and apprehend suspected individuals. Through technical and physical surveillance, the police identified 36 addresses including 16 residences and 20 businesses where counterfeit, smuggled, and illegal drugs, medical devices, and materials were unlawfully stored. In response, the police carried out raids and arrested 16 suspects during the operations.
During the operations, the police seized medical materials with an estimated market value of approximately 50 million Turkish lira. These materials included allergy tests, Botox, filling materials, and products used in the treatment of cancer, diabetes, infections, hypertension, and sexual diseases. The suspects who were detained were taken to the Istanbul Financial Crimes Unit for questioning. Following their interrogations, the 16 individuals involved in drug trafficking were brought before the court. Of these, seven were released by the judicial authorities, while the remaining nine were arrested and sent to prison.
The authorities announced that the seized counterfeit, spoiled, and smuggled drugs were put on display at the Istanbul Police Department on Vatan Street. The operations were part of an ongoing effort by law enforcement to crack down on illegal activities in the pharmaceutical sector and to protect public health and safety. The successful operations and arrests demonstrated the commitment of the Istanbul Police Department to combat financial crimes and criminal activities that pose a threat to society.
The Istanbul Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit emphasized the importance of collaboration with relevant authorities, such as the pharmaceutical sector and regulatory agencies, to prevent and combat counterfeiting activities. The investigations and operations carried out by the police aimed to dismantle criminal networks involved in the production, distribution, and sale of counterfeit drugs and medical materials. With the support of the public and the cooperation of various stakeholders, the police were able to achieve significant results in their efforts to combat financial crimes and protect the well-being of the community.
The operations underscored the need for increased vigilance and enforcement measures to address the growing threat of counterfeit drugs in the pharmaceutical sector. The perpetrators of such illegal activities not only undermine public confidence in the healthcare system but also jeopardize the health and safety of individuals who unknowingly consume counterfeit or substandard products. By cracking down on counterfeit drug trafficking and dismantling criminal networks, law enforcement agencies play a critical role in safeguarding public health and preventing harm caused by illicit activities in the pharmaceutical industry.
