The Delhi Police Crime Branch has uncovered a major counterfeit drug syndicate selling unauthorised cancer medications across the capital. In coordinated raids at Laxmi Nagar, Budh Vihar, and Chandni Chowk, six individuals were arrested and 66 spurious drug items were seized. Authorities confirmed that the racket endangered vulnerable patients by offering fake drugs at discounted rates.

Key highlights

Multiple raids and seizures

• Raids conducted in Laxmi Nagar, Budh Vihar, and Chandni Chowk.

• Seized counterfeit injections of Opdivo, Cetuximab, and Lenvatinib.

• A total of 66 spurious drug items recovered; estimated value in lakhs.

Method of operation

• The accused used social media groups to target desperate cancer patients.

• Sold fake cancer drugs marked "Not for Sale in India" at ₹50,000–₹70,000.

• Market price of genuine drugs: ₹1.5–2 lakh.

Kingpin and ongoing probe

• Shop owner Naveen Arya identified as the syndicate’s mastermind.

• Arya was previously jailed for a similar offence and resumed operations after bail.

• Police and CDSCO drug inspectors confirmed the drugs were unregistered and illegal.

Legal action and charges

• Case filed under sections 276, 277, 278, 318(4), 61(2), and 3(5) of the BNS.

• Technical evidence from mobile phones links the accused to multiple victims.

• Crime Branch is tracking affected patients to support the investigation.

The bust highlights a growing threat of counterfeit cancer drugs in India. With arrests made and evidence sealed, Delhi Police’s crackdown underscores the urgent need for tighter surveillance and enforcement in pharmaceutical retail, especially for life-saving treatments.