Ramanagara Fake Medicine Racket: SIT Seeks Special Powers for Full Probe
The Ramanagara fake medicine case has taken a serious turn as the SIT seeks special powers from the Home Department to investigate alleged drug offences fully and overcome legal hurdles.
Ramanagara fake medicine racket remains under investigation.
SIT has sought wider powers for the probe.
Fake medicine supplies were allegedly routed from a farmhouse.
The investigation into the alleged fake medicine racket at Dodderi village in Ramanagara has entered a crucial phase. Although the Karnataka government has formed a Special Investigation Team to examine the case, legal restrictions are now making a wider probe difficult.
According to officials, the SIT is preparing to approach the Home Department for special authority to investigate offences connected with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Under the existing framework, cases under the law and their investigation fall within the jurisdiction of the drug control authorities.
A key meeting held at the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner’s office reportedly discussed the issue. The SIT currently has limited powers to proceed against suspects based on the complaint and related material. Investigators believe broader authority would allow them to examine the entire alleged network instead of restricting the probe to specific complaints.
The seriousness of the case has added urgency to the request. Offences involving counterfeit medicines can attract severe punishment, including imprisonment for life in certain circumstances. The SIT therefore wants the legal hurdles cleared so that the alleged supply chain and other links can be examined in detail.
The case came to light after police raided a farmhouse in Dodderi village following information from local residents. Suspicious movement around the property had reportedly raised concerns, with cars visiting the location several times a week.
Investigators suspect the farmhouse was being used as a storage and distribution point for counterfeit medicines. The alleged network is also believed to have used the Porter delivery platform to move supplies. According to the investigation, around 100 bottles of suspected fake medicines were allegedly sent out each week while those involved operated from Bengaluru.
Police have already taken steps against the alleged key figure, Prashanth, with a lookout notice reportedly issued in his name. Investigators are now working to establish the wider network behind the alleged operation and identify those involved in manufacturing, storage and distribution.
The SIT’s proposed request to the Home Department could become an important next step in the Ramanagara fake medicine investigation. If the additional authority is granted, officials are expected to pursue the case more extensively under the relevant drug laws.
