Washington’s law enforcement machinery struck hard against an international drug racket rooted in India, with the DEA confiscating more than 200 web domains of rogue online pharmacies. This high-stakes enforcement, part of Operation Meltdown, exposed a criminal enterprise that peddled prescription-free diverted and counterfeit drugs across America, contributing to tragic losses of life.
Kicking off January 27, DEA teams executed nationwide raids, nabbing four suspects while issuing suspensions and notices to halt operations immediately. These steps protect communities from the perils of unregulated drug distribution, as outlined in federal statutes governing controlled substances.
The TCO’s operations flouted CSA regulations by distributing hazardous medications without doctor-approved scripts, infiltrating the closed distribution system designed for patient safety. Fake sites lured buyers with slick, American-looking interfaces, only to deliver deadly counterfeits often tainted with potent opioids or stimulants.
Probe revelations painted a grim picture: the group linked to six fatalities and multiple overdoses. Thousands of buyers were traced, prompting a massive outreach via 20,000+ letters to gather intel for further action.
Leveraging its worldwide network, the DEA partners with Indian authorities to identify, investigate, and eradicate such threats. This collaborative push sends a clear message to digital drug lords: the web is no sanctuary for illegal trade.
As the dust settles on this domain takedown, experts warn of rising online pharmacy scams. Vigilance is key—always check for proper licensing and avoid unverified sources to prevent falling victim to these sophisticated cons.