More than 40 countries last week took part in an international week of action targeting the online sale of counterfeit and illegal medicines to raise awareness of the associated health risks, resulting in arrests across the globe and the seizure of thousands of potentially harmful medicines. Focusing on websites supplying illegal and dangerous medicines, Operation Pangea III is the largest internet-based action of its kind in support of the International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeiting Taskforce (Impact). “Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a rapidly growing threat to global health and safety, and are now a matter of priority concern for the entire international community,” said WCO secretary general, Kunio Mikuriya. During the operation 694 website investigations were opened and 290 sites have already been shut down.
Customs targets illegal medicine trade
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