RM1.3mil in fake medicine seized
Unauthorised products with promise of curing diabetes sold via social media
KOTA BARU: Fake diabetic medicine worth RM1.3mil were seized from a factory in Pengkalan Chepa, says the Kelantan Health Department.
Its director Datuk Dr Ahmad Razin Ahmad Mahir said they stopped the manufacturing and distribution of the unauthorised product, sold via social media, under the brand name GOZOUT with fake MesTi sticker.
“They claimed the product could be used to treat diabetes, and (improve the function of ) pancreas to bring down blood sugar level,” he said during a press conference yesterday.
On Nov 20, the department’s pharmaceutical enforcement division launched “Ops Ghost” and seized 6,864 bottles of the fake medicine from the factory. It was believed to have been operating for five years.
The product was sold at RM180 per 60ml bottle.
“This is the biggest raid carried out this year,” said Dr Ahmad Razin.
“We put the factory under surveillance since January, ” he added.
The target market included Penang, Kuala Lumpur and several other cities, he said.
Investigations were being carried out under Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984 for manufacturing products that are not registered with the Health Ministry.
Those found guilty are liable to a maximum fine of RM25,000 and jail of up to three years under Section 12(1) Sale of Drugs Act 1952.
Dr Ahmad Razin said over the last three years, they raided 70 premises and confiscated products worth RM1.9mil.