On May 14, four individuals were taken into custody during an ongoing investigation into the unlawful production and sale of unauthorized medical items, including counterfeit injection devices. The suspects—three men aged 28, 34, and 39, and a 55-year-old woman—are believed to have operated an online distribution network without the proper authorization required under the Medicines Act.
Multi-Location Searches and Seizures
Search operations were carried out at five residential properties and a laboratory facility across several Dutch municipalities: Bloemendaal, Kaag en Braassem, Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, Opsterland, and the Kennemerland region.
Authorities seized:
- A large quantity of unauthorized medicinal products (including anabolic substances and slimming aids),
- Packaging materials, and
- Equipment used in the production and handling of the products.
Timeline and Roles of Suspects
- The 34-year-old suspect from Bodegraven-Reeuwijk is accused of advertising counterfeit injection pens online. These devices were designed to administer a weight-loss compound intended for adult use.
- The 55-year-old woman from Kaag en Braassem allegedly handled storage and packaging of the products for shipment from her home.
- The 39-year-old suspect was apprehended at a laboratory in Opsterland where the products were reportedly being manufactured. Both the inventory and production machinery were confiscated.
- The 28-year-old suspect was arrested in the Kennemerland region and is believed to have managed the shipping logistics. Returned parcels were also found at his address.
Investigation Background
This operation began following a report to the Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ). The investigation, now under the direction of the Public Prosecution Service, aims to dismantle illegal supply chains that pose a risk to public health and violate national pharmaceutical regulations.
