Nearly 270 people suspected of drug trafficking were arrested and 66 criminal groups dismantled during a police operation conducted in 90 countries, it was reported. May 7, 2026 Interpol is particularly concerned about the diversion of pest control products.
The operation " Pangea XVIII", organized in March across all continents, also resulted in the seizure of more than 6 million illicit remedies, worth $15.5 million, specifies in a statement the international criminal police organization, headquartered in Lyon (east-central France).
Among the unlicensed or counterfeit drugs seized were remedies for erectile dysfunction, sedatives, painkillers, antibiotics, and products to help quit smoking.
Read also Inside a laboratory that tracks counterfeit medicines
Sharp increase in seizures of antiparasitic drugs sold as alternatives to cancer treatments
“ Through online marketplaces and informal supply chains, criminals can exploit loopholes in controls and target people seeking quick or affordable treatment.", analyzes Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza, who warns of consequences "serious, even fatal"“.
The organization notes a " sharp rise "Seizures of antiparasitic drugs, including dewormers authorized only for veterinary use. These products, often presented as " dietary supplements" are sold as part of " alternative cancer treatmentsInterpol specifies, before emphasizing that These allegations are not supported by any scientific evidence.“.
The use of this type of product had " has already been observed "during the Covid-19 pandemic, Interpol recalls.
Read also The blacklist of drugs to avoid in 2025 and alternatives to do without them
A clandestine drug production factory dismantled in Bulgaria
Demand for related pharmaceutical products to performance " And " to lifestyle", such as steroids and peptides, continues to grow, " fueled by the bodybuilding and fitness communities"Interpol continues.
Among the notable cases uncovered during the operation, a clandestine drug manufacturing plant was dismantled in Bulgaria, where millions of tablets, ampoules, and injectable products were seized. In Burkina Faso, authorities confiscated 384,000 antibiotic capsules. In Côte d'Ivoire, a ton of counterfeit ibuprofen was discovered in a vehicle.
English 
French