JKNS Uncovers Syndicate Selling Unregistered Medicines Worth Over RM6 Mln

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 2 (Bernama) -- The Selangor State Health Department (JKNS) busted a syndicate involved in the sale and distribution of unregistered medicines, seizing 402 types of medicines worth over RM6 million in an operation conducted in Klang, Selangor, on Oct 23.

In a statement today, the department said that, assisted by teams from Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, and Kuala Lumpur Pharmacy Enforcement Branch (CPF), it mounted the raid on two premises used as illegal storage facilities and four retail outlets linked to the syndicate.

“The unregistered medicines, believed to have been imported from abroad, were allegedly obtained from unauthorised suppliers for distribution in the local market.

“Among the seized items were medicines containing controlled substances, including sexual stimulants (Sildenafil), antibiotics (Tetracycline and Amoxicillin), steroids (Dexamethasone), contraceptive pills (Ethinylestradiol/ Levonorgestrel), and antihistamines (Chlorpheniramine),” read the statement.

The sale and possession of unregistered medicines are offences under Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984 and are punishable under Section 12 of the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.

Upon conviction, individuals may be fined up to RM25,000 or sentenced to a maximum of three years’ imprisonment, while companies are liable to a fine of up to RM50,000.

It said the move is part of efforts to curb the sale and distribution of unregistered medicines, aimed at safeguarding public health, adding that it is also working to intensify the "Tolak Ubat Tidak Sah" (TOBaTS) campaign launched in 2024.

JKNS advised the public to verify the registration status of medicines by checking for the hologram security sticker and registration number (MAL), or by visiting the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) website at http://www.npra.gov.my, or calling NPRA at 03-7883 5400.

The public is also encouraged to report any suspicious medicines through the Public Agency Complaint Management System (SisPAA) at http://moh.spab.gov.my, by visiting the nearest CPF office, or by calling the hotline at 03-7841 3200.

-- BERNAMA