Fake Ayurvedic Weight Loss Racket Busted in Tumakuru, Delhi-Based Accused Arrested

Tumakuru, : In a major crackdown, Tumakuru police have unearthed a large-scale racket involved in manufacturing and selling fake Ayurvedic medicines under the guise of weight-loss powders and other health products using duplicate branding. A Delhi-based  accused has been arrested in connection with the case.

The investigation was initiated following a complaint filed on August 14, 2025, by a company alleging misuse of its trademark. Acting on the complaint, police launched a detailed probe that eventually led them to a warehouse in Shalimar Bagh, Delhi. A raid conducted on March 27 resulted in the seizure of a huge quantity of counterfeit products, including so-called slimming powders, Ayurvedic tablets, cosmetic creams, and packaging materials.

According to police sources, the accused were operating under the name ‘RK Traders’ and were selling these fake products online, targeting consumers especially youngsters seeking quick weight-loss solutions. “The products were being manufactured without any regulatory approvals, posing serious health risks to consumers,” an officer said.

Shockingly, investigators found that in several instances, ordinary wheat flour was being packaged and sold as “slim powder,” misleading customers and endangering their health. The racket had created a sophisticated online presence to appear legitimate and attract buyers across different regions.

Further investigation revealed that the operation was being run under multiple company names, including RK Traders, MK Traders, and MHK Traders, for nearly one-and-a-half years. The main  accused, identified as 56-year-old Rajeev Khanna, was actively involved along with his son.

A special police team working under the guidance of Superintendent of Police K.V. Ashok arrested Khanna in Delhi on March 28. He was later brought to Karnataka and produced before the Sira court, which granted police custody for further interrogation.

Police believe the racket may have wider links and are probing the distribution network and financial transactions involved. “We are examining the extent of the fraud and identifying others who may be part of this network,” officials added.

The case has once again raised concerns over the growing menace of counterfeit health products being sold online. Authorities have urged the public to verify the authenticity of such products before purchase and to avoid falling prey to misleading advertisements promising quick results.