CBI launches probe into Puducherry counterfeit drugs case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two cases against suspects involved in the sensational counterfeit drugs sale case in Puducherry. 

Acting on a request made by the Government of Puducherry, the CBI’s Anti Corruption Unit, Delhi, registered the cases against three suspects on charges of illegal drug manufacturing, storage, distribution and related offences detected at Mettupalayam and Sedarapet areas of the union territory of Puducherry.

In simultaneous searches conducted on suspected premises between September 1 and December 12, 2025, the Department of Drugs Control, Puducherry, found several drug manufacturing units were functioning in violation of the provisions under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, which relate to manufacture, storage and sale of pharmaceutical products.

Premises sealed

To prevent the continuation of the illegal activities, the premises were sealed and large quantities of finished pharmaceutical products, raw materials, machinery and equipment were seized. 

Samples drawn from the seizures were sent to the Central Drugs Testing Laboratory, Chennai, for a detailed analysis regarding quality, safety and statutory compliance.

A case was registered by the local police which was later transferred to the Crime Branch Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

In a letter to the Director, CBI, the Special Home Secretary, Puducherry, said the CBCID conducted extensive investigation leading to multiple arrests and seizure of incriminating materials. 

The investigations conducted so far revealed possible inter-State ramifications, complex supply chains, financial transactions, and involvement of multiple persons operating across different States, indicating the presence of organised criminal networks engaged in illegal drug manufacturing and distribution.

The probe had also revealed the likelihood of illegal financial flows and organised activities having potential implications for public health, economic security, and national interest, with possible linkages extending beyond the territorial jurisdiction of the union territory of Puducherry. 

Though the CBCID had conducted effective investigation so far, it was felt further investigation in the matter might require specialised multi-disciplinary expertise, inter-State coordination, financial investigation capability, and possible international liaison capabilities of the CBI which has nationwide jurisdiction.

Taking into account the gravity of offences, inter-State nature of the alleged crimes, and the requirement of coordinated investigation across multiple jurisdictions, the Puducherry administration had decided to transfer the case to the CBI, the letter said.

The drugs sold or seized were found to have expired or were about to expire. The counterfeit drugs included syrup meant for children and other fast selling medicines, the First Information Report (FIR) said.