When a large consignment of codeine-based cough syrup was seized in Lucknow, the investigation revealed that the shipments had been supplied to several districts of Uttar Pradesh. From these districts, the syrup was smuggled across the border areas, routed through Bihar, and transported into Nepal. Separately, the smuggling of these medicines into Bangladesh via the West Bengal route was also confirmed. After concrete evidence emerged, an FIR was registered on Saturday against the directors of the concerned companies.
Network Exposed After a Newspaper Report
Immediately after the consignment was recovered in Lucknow, Multiple News outlets published a detailed report on the Drug Trade Spreading Through Syrup and Tablets. When the Food and Drug Administration Department conducted a district-wise investigation into the network mentioned in the report, the details were found accurate. The department’s inquiry revealed that Lucknow-based Arpic Pharmaceuticals and Eidhika Lifesciences had sent codeine-based syrup to several firms using illegal invoices. Some of those firms were operating without permission, while others did not exist at all. The investigation also found that both companies had supplied these syrups not only in Uttar Pradesh but also in Bihar and West Bengal. Notices were issued for verification of the bills, but no response was received from the companies.
Fake Invoices and Fraudulent Licences are Used for Transactions
According to Brajesh Kumar, Assistant Commissioner of the Lucknow division, scrutiny of documents revealed that the firms had used fake invoices, fictitious licence holders, and incorrect licence numbers to sell and supply codeine-based syrup. Earlier, too, complaints had surfaced that these firms were selling codeine syrup as an addictive substance. The investigation confirmed that the supplied syrup was not meant for medical use but was being routed to organised drug-trafficking networks.
Strict Action Against Suspicious Medical Stores
Dr. Roshan Jacob, Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Administration, stated that a special investigation campaign is ongoing across the state. Information has also been shared with states where the supply has been confirmed. So far, 115 samples have been sent for testing, 16 FIRs have been registered, and six people have been arrested. Sales of codeine-based syrup and narcotic medicines have been completely halted at 25 medical stores across the state.
