Police bust ring suspected of selling fake Viagra

More than 20 people from across Israel taken in for questioning as Health Ministry warns pills may be dangerous

Sue Surkes is The Times of Israel's environment reporter

Suspected fake erection dysfunction pills seized September 7, 2016. Israel Police)
Suspected fake erection dysfunction pills seized September 7, 2016. Israel Police)

Police, Health Ministry and Tax Authority investigators on Wednesday broke up a ring suspected of importing and selling fake erectile dysfunction pills of the kind better known by their trade name, Viagra.

They rounded up more than 20 suspects throughout Israel after an undercover investigation revealed what is suspected to be a well-oiled organization that imports large numbers of the pills and markets them on the internet and through a countrywide network of distributors, providing door-to-door courier delivery.

The operation yielded hauls of suspect pills, packaging, bottles and labels, along with documentation.

The pills were labeled as “well known, authorized erectile dysfunction tables,” a Health Ministry spokesperson said.

Those rounded up were taken in for questioning. They are suspected of selling and supplying a dangerous substance, fraud, trade mark offenses, contravention of pharmacist regulations, and obstruction of justice.

The Health Ministry warned that the pills may present a danger to the public.

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