Eight and a half million doses of fake and unlicensed Viagra seized

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has revealed that more than eight and a half million tablets were intercepted before they could enter the black market for pharmaceutical drugs.

Brodie Clark, Head of Border Force for the UK Border Agency, said, “This massive haul makes it clear just how seriously we take the smuggling of fake and unlicensed medicines. As well as stopping drugs, weapons and illegal immigrants from reaching the UK, our officers have a vital role to play in protecting British consumers and businesses from the trade in black market medicines and other goods.

“Smugglers are only out to make a profit - these goods are often dangerous and the proceeds can be used to fuel serious organised crime.”

The UK Border Agency also refers seized pharmaceutical drugs to the MHRA who then look to take criminal enforcement action against those attempting to trade the tablets on the black market.

In 2010, the MHRA participated in the third International Internet Week of Action which now extends to 45 countries. The operation resulted in the seizure of more than two million doses of illegal medicines as well as the closure of hundreds of websites and the arrest of 87 people engaged in the distribution and supply of these dangerous products.

Mick Deats, Head of Enforcement for the MHRA, said, “One of our priorities at the MHRA is to protect people from the dangers of sourcing medicines from unregulated websites and the MHRA will continue to work with the UKBA in doing this.