Fake anti-cancer drugs in reused vials prompt crackdown by Delhi authorities
Jun 15, 2025
In the wake of a counterfeit cancer drug racket uncovered by Delhi Police, the Delhi Drugs Control Department has launched an aggressive city-wide inspection drive, issuing notices to 12 wholesale dealers and collecting over 160 drug samples to curb the sale of spurious medicines.
Key highlights
Widespread raids and notices
12 wholesale drug dealers served notices for irregularities in sales and purchase records.
Dealers given 15 days to respond before punitive action is taken.
Two-phase inspection across Delhi
10 teams of drug inspectors launched inspections across Bhagirath Place, Laxmi Nagar, Dwarka, and near major hospitals including AIIMS and Safdarjung.
Focus is primarily on anti-cancer drugs, a high-risk category for counterfeiting.
160+ drug samples collected
Over 80% of collected samples are cancer medications.
Samples sent to Chandigarh labs for faster analysis due to limited testing capacity in Delhi.
Dangerous practice of reusing vials
Empty vials of original cancer medicines are being refilled with fake substances and reintroduced into pharmacies and online supply chains.
Fake drugs reportedly marked as “Not for Sale in India” sold for ₹50,000–₹70,000 despite original market value being ₹1.5–₹2 lakh.
Hospital infiltration and online risk
Authorities suspect hospital supply chains have been compromised.
Counterfeit drugs are being sold through both offline and online channels.
With counterfeit cancer drugs endangering lives and trust in the healthcare system, the Delhi Drugs Control Department’s crackdown marks a critical move toward safeguarding patient health. Continued enforcement, transparent supply chains, and faster lab testing are expected to be key in curbing the menace.
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