Image: supplied.
Bengaluru: Prashanth, described in the supplied report as the alleged kingpin in the fake medicine racket that recently surfaced in Karnataka, has been taken into custody at Kempegowda International Airport after remaining out of reach of investigators for several days.
According to the report, a Look Out Circular (LOC) had been issued against Prashanth in connection with the case.
He was taken into custody at Bengaluru airport after returning to India and has subsequently been taken to the investigating team’s office for questioning.
The report states that Prashanth had been in the custody of customs authorities in Azerbaijan before being sent back to India. It further states that he arrived on a flight from Sharjah before being detained at Kempegowda International Airport.
Investigators are now questioning him in connection with the alleged fake medicine network.
The case, which has drawn attention in Karnataka, is being investigated by the concerned police special investigation team/CCB along with the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA), according to the supplied information.
What the Fake Medicine Case Is About
The investigation concerns allegations that low-cost medicines were being repackaged and relabelled under the names of well-known pharmaceutical companies.
According to the supplied report, ordinary medicines purchased at lower prices were allegedly rebranded and sold using labels associated with established pharmaceutical products.
Investigators are also examining allegations involving expired medicines.
The report alleges that expiry-related markings on some medicines were removed using chemicals, after which new labels were affixed and the products were repacked.
These allegations form part of the ongoing investigation and have not been presented in the supplied material as final findings of guilt.
LOC Had Been Issued Against Prashanth
Prashanth had allegedly remained unavailable to investigators for several days, following which a Look Out Circular was issued against him.
His return to India enabled investigators to take him into custody at Kempegowda International Airport.
The investigating team has now begun questioning him regarding the alleged operation, including his purported role in the procurement, repackaging and distribution of medicines involved in the case.
Further details regarding his alleged role, other persons involved and the wider distribution network are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
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