ISLAMABAD: A joint operation carried out by the Drug Task Force and the Federal Investigation Agency has uncovered a counterfeit medicine packaging factory in the Nawakili area of Quetta, resulting in the arrest of six individuals, including the factory owner.
According to officials, the main accused, identified as Muhammad Tahir, was taken into custody along with five workers named Nazir, Abdullah, Muhammad Yousaf, Muhammad Javed, and Aziz-ur-Rehman.
The illegal unit was operating from a residential house located in Mughal Abad, Shakir Colony, where unregistered, illegal, and fake medicines were being manufactured and packed.
Authorities revealed that the counterfeit medicines were not only supplied across different regions of the country but were also being smuggled to neighboring countries.
The raid was led by Drug Inspector Ali Ahmad Achakzai along with officials of the FIA.
During the operation, a large quantity of fake medicines, capsules, strips, and raw material worth millions of rupees was seized, and the factory was immediately sealed.
Samples of the recovered medicines have been sent to the drug testing laboratory for analysis.
Officials stated that once the laboratory report is received, a formal case will be registered against the accused in the Drug Court.
Sources further disclosed that during the initial interrogation, the suspects admitted to supplying fake medicines to several major medical stores in Quetta.
A crackdown against those involved is expected to begin soon.
Balochistan has been facing a growing problem with the circulation of counterfeit and substandard medicines.
These fake medicines not only fail to treat illnesses effectively but also pose severe health risks, including allergic reactions, drug resistance, and even fatalities.
The issue is compounded by weak regulatory enforcement, lack of awareness among the public, and limited access to genuine pharmaceutical outlets, especially in remote areas.
Illegal traders often smuggle counterfeit medicines from neighboring regions, selling them at low prices to attract customers.
Patients, unaware of the risks, purchase these medicines from unauthorized vendors, leading to a cycle of health complications and financial loss.
Health authorities have stressed the need for stricter monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with law enforcement to curb this illicit trade.
Tackling the fake medicine trade is crucial to safeguarding public health and restoring trust in the healthcare system of Balochistan.
