A large-scale operation by the Hellenic Police uncovered ring involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal preparations and doping substances.
As part of the operation 14 individuals were arrested, while more than 40,000 units of pharmaceutical products and doping substances were seized. The illegal financial gain is estimated to exceed 1,000,000 euros.
Investigation findings indicate that during the ring’s operation, over 15,000 shipments were made both within Greece and to approximately 90 countries abroad</
The alleged mastermind of the case is a 51-year-old owner pharmacy in Chalandri, who was arrested during the police operation.
According to the investigation, a fully equipped laboratory for the illegal production of pharmaceutical preparations had been set up in the basement of the pharmacy, without the required license and in violation of established production regulations.
Approximately 10 people were involved in the production process, including scientific staff such as biologists. The manufactured preparations were distributed either through the leader’s pharmacy or to the wholesale market via a company that did not hold the relevant license.
The products were promoted via websites, while they were shipped as “dietary supplements” or wellness products. Deliveries were made either in person or via postal services.
The product range included weight-loss pills, products for erectile dysfunction, as well as doping substances, using—in some cases—raw materials of dubious origin or substances in the research stage.
The EOF emphasizes that these specific products are considered dangerous to the health of consumers.
During searches conducted at a residence, a pharmacy, and a health supplement company, the following were found and seized:
- more than 40,800 units of pharmaceutical preparations and doping substances
- 13 kilograms of raw materials
- 47,320 euros in cash
- packaging materials and ready-to-ship packages
- cell phones, a computer, and handwritten notes
Investigation data show that over 15,000 shipments had been made within Greece and to approximately 90 countries, while the value of the seized items is estimated at over 600,000 euros and the illegal proceeds at more than 1,000,000 euros.
The arrested individuals were brought before the competent prosecutor.
