Wednesday. 29.03.2023
EUROPOL

544 arrested in Europe-wide operation against counterfeit drugs

The investigators focused on gangs dealing in doping substances and counterfeit drugs for the treatment of cancer, erectile dysfunction and allergies, as well as painkillers
08 June 2021, Netherlands, The Hague: A view of Europol headquarters before the press conference on the largest ever international police and judicial action against organised crime. International law enforcement agencies announce 800 arrests in more than 16 countries linked to encrypted criminal activities, with Europol calling it the biggest coordinated police sting of its kind. Photo: Jerry Lampen/ANP/dpa
A view of Europol headquarters in The Hague. Photo: Jerry Lampen/dpa.

European investigators have arrested 544 people in an operation against counterfeit drugs and doping, according to the European Union's law enforcement agency (Europol).

Substances worth 63 million euros (71 million dollars) were seized, Europol announced in The Hague on Tuesday.

According to the report, medication used for doping and alleged coronavirus cures were seized.

In view of the widespread availability of vaccines, however, the European police authority observed a clear decline in the trade of such preparations.

Counterfeit medicines and other substances pose a threat to public health, Europol warned. They are produced in illegal laboratories without safety rules and the observation of hygiene regulations, and they often contained harmful substances.

26 countries involved

The Europe-wide operation "Shield II" took place from April to October and was led by investigators in France, Finland, Greece and Italy. Judicial authorities in 26 countries were involved.

Thirty-three criminal networks and 37 companies were investigated, according to Europol. About 1,400 separate investigations were opened and more than 6,500 athletes were subjected to controls.

The investigators focused on gangs dealing in doping substances and counterfeit drugs for the treatment of cancer, erectile dysfunction and allergies, as well as painkillers.

544 arrested in Europe-wide operation against counterfeit drugs
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