Rs 1 Crore Bribe to Drug Officials Exposed, UP STF Busts Multi-Crore Fake Drugs Syndicate
Agra: In a shocking twist to a counterfeit drug bust, Agra-based pharmaceutical trader has been arrested by the Special Task Force (STF) for allegedly offering a Rs 1 crore bribe, delivered in three bags of Rs 500 notes, to STF and drug department officials during a raid on his premises.
According to various media reports, the Special Task Force (STF), in collaboration with the Drug Department and local police, had executed search operations across several locations including Hey Maa Medical Store and Bansal Medical Store. The raids resulted in the seizure of over ₹3.23 crore worth of suspected fake medicines, according to official statements.
Allegedly attempting to derail the investigation, Agarwal arrived during the raid carrying three bags filled with ₹500 currency notes amounting to ₹1 crore, which he offered to officials to “settle the matter.” The bribe attempt was foiled, and he was arrested on the spot under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
As per TOI report, the operation revealed raids on both the medical shops and their associated warehouses. From Hey Maa Medical, officials confiscated medicines worth approximately ₹2.43 crore, while nearly ₹1 crore worth of suspect stock was recovered from Bansal Medical.
Counterfeit Network and Current Investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fake medicines were sourced from Chennai and Puducherry, with the counterfeit stock distributed across 12 Indian states and Nepal, indicating an extensive cross-border network, reports Jagran.
Authorities have transferred 15 samples for lab testing to confirm their authenticity, as representatives noted that many of the seized products—branded under names like Zydus, Glenmark, Sun Pharma, and Sanofi—could be counterfeit.
Following the arrests and seizures, the Income Tax Department and Vigilance authorities have been alerted, and further action is underway. Investigations have also extended to the lockdown and inspection of nearby warehouses operated by Agarwal and his associates.
