Delhi Police Crime Branch has uncovered a shocking illegal network that allegedly exploited cancer patients and sold counterfeit anti-cancer medicines for huge profits. Investigators found that vials sold as Avelumab, with patients reportedly paying up to ₹1 lakh, contained only water. Tests conducted by Germany-based Merck reportedly found no active medicinal ingredient capable of treating cancer in the samples.
The investigation also revealed that genuine cancer medicines supplied free of cost under a Rajasthan government scheme were allegedly diverted and illegally sold in the open market. The racket, which reportedly operated across seven states, was busted by police on August 20 as part of a nationwide investigation into the illegal supply and sale of cancer drugs.
Police arrested 17 accused and seized cash worth ₹50 lakh, along with 588 filled anti-cancer vials, six empty vials, seven empty boxes and 3,021 units of other medicines. Drugs including Darzalex, Imfinzi, Erbitux, Opdyta, Gazyva and Bavencio were among the medicines recovered during the operation. The investigation into the network and its wider distribution chain is continuing.
