Fake vaccines seized, many arrests made
South African authorities have seized hundreds of fake Covid-19 vaccines following a global alert issued by Interpol warning vaccines would be a prime target for criminal networks.
Some 400 ampoules – equivalent to around 2 400 doses – containing the fake vaccine were found at a warehouse in Germiston, where officers also recovered a large quantity of fake 3M masks and arrested three Chinese nationals and a Zambian national.
In China, police successfully identified a network selling counterfeit Covid-19 vaccines and raided the manufacturing premises, resulting in the arrest of about 80 suspects. They seized more than 3 000 fake vaccines on the scene.
The investigation was supported and facilitated by Interpol’s illicit goods and global health programme.
The arrests came just weeks after Interpol issued an orange notice warning law enforcement to prepare for organised crime networks targeting Covid-19 vaccines, both physically and online.
The alert also included details and images of genuine vaccines and authorised shipping methods provided by pharmaceutical companies to assist in the identification of fake vials.
It again underlined the unique role played by Interpol in ensuring law enforcement across its 194 member countries was updated on crime trends and swift and secure information exchange.
“While we welcome this result, this is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Covid-19 vaccine related crime,” said Interpol secretary-general Jurgen Stock
“Following our warning that criminals would target the distribution of Covid-19 vaccines, both on- and offline, Interpol continues to provide its full support to national authorities working to protect the health and safety of their citizens.
“These arrests underline the unique role of Interpol in bringing together key players from both the public and private sectors to protect public safety.”
Said Brigadier Vish Naidoo, South African Police national spokesman: “Since Covid-19 reached South Africa, government has adopted an integrated multidisciplinary law enforcement approach. This, together with our association with counterparts from all Interpol member countries, is proving very effective as we have seen in the arrests of foreign nationals attempting to peddle fake vaccines to unsuspecting people within SA.”
A spokesperson for the Chinese ministry of public security said: “Chinese police are conducting a targeted campaign to prevent and crack down on crimes related to vaccines, proactively investigating and combating crimes related to vaccines in accordance with law.