In a large-scale crackdown on the illegal sale of prescription drugs, Gujarat authorities have seized over 50 lakh bottles of codeine-based syrups from chemist shops across the state. Raids were conducted in cities including Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Kutch, and Surendranagar, exposing a widespread network of unauthorized distribution.

Key Highlights

Statewide raids on chemist shops

• The Gujarat Food and Drug Commissioner’s office launched coordinated raids from Friday across multiple cities.

• Key areas targeted included Ahmedabad’s Science City and Shukan Mall near SIMS Hospital.

Illegal sale of Laviril-500 and codeine syrups

• Large quantities of Laviril-500, a codeine-based cough medicine, were confiscated.

• Investigators found these were being sold without prescription, in violation of drug regulations.

Repeat offenders and loose enforcement

• A chemist from Ahmedabad previously caught during the COVID-19 pandemic has been arrested again for illegal sales.

• Officials highlighted that lack of strict penalties like license cancellations have enabled continued violations.

Vadodara link uncovers codeine supply chain

• In a separate operation, suspects connected to the distribution of over 50 lakh codeine syrup bottles were arrested.

• The supply was traced back to a shop named Lohana Sant, suspected to be a key distributor in the network.

Statements from Leaders or Officials
 Gujarat Food and Drug Commissioner Dr. Hemant Koshia confirmed, “Raids have been conducted across the state. We are currently awaiting complete reports. Drug samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and further action will follow based on results.”The Gujarat FDCA’s crackdown signals stricter vigilance against illegal medicine trade. With laboratory tests pending and legal action underway, the state is expected to intensify scrutiny on pharmacies and clamp down on codeine misuse, especially in urban hotspots.