The Intelligence and Investigation Service of the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA-IOD) arrested 3 men aged 29, 31, and 33 on Wednesday, August 6, for illegal trade in medicines. The suspects are under restrictions and may only contact their lawyers. They will be presented to the examining magistrate on Friday, August 8.
During the search of the suspects homes in the province of Limburg and business premises in Limburg, investigators seized a large quantity of medicines. These substances are only available by prescription, and a permit is required for their sale. The suspects sold the medications without a permit to customers without prescriptions through the website www.funcaps.nl. That website has been taken offline by the NVWA-IOD.
The NVWA-IOD, under the direction of the Functional Public Prosecution Service, has launched a criminal investigation following information from the Health and Youth Inspectorate (IGJ) and the police regarding the possible large-scale illegal sale of medicines by the suspects. This includes benzodiazepines, which are prescribed for anxiety and severe sleep problems. These substances are highly addictive, and an incorrect dosage can be harmful and even life-threatening.
Call to Customers
The NVWA-IOD would like to get in touch with consumers who have experienced health issues due to the use of substances purchased via www.funcaps.nl. Information about the purchased substances and the consequences of their use can be very valuable for the investigation.
REPORT HEALTH ISSUES FUNCAPS.NL
Seizures
The NVWA-IOD is conducting further research into the extent of the trade by the suspects and has seized bank accounts, cryptocurrency assets, homes, cars, and other luxury goods. When assets are seized, suspects cannot hide them anymore. After a conviction by the court, the money earned from illegal activities can thus be confiscated.
Do Not Buy Illegal Substances
The NVWA and IGJ strongly advise against purchasing medicines online that are normally only available by prescription. There is no control over their composition and effects, and there is also no oversight of their combination with other medications. Therefore, using illegal medicines poses significant health risks and can even be fatal.
More Information
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