Banned pills seized from electronic gadget cargo

The pills were seized from a shipment of electronic gadgets imported by a trading company here from an Asian country recently.

“The drug, made in Germany, is originally used for treating stomach disorders, but is also abused by some for inducing abortion,” a senior customs official told Khaleej Times on condition of anonymity.

“The haul, apparently heading to an African country, had not been granted an import licence by the authorities concerned, and seriously posed risk to public health. “Customs inspectors of Dubai Cargo Village suspected the contraband which was found hidden in a cargo of electronic devices during a routine inspection,” he said, adding that the drugs were not listed in the customs declaration.

“The sample of the pills, worth $500 per box in black market, was transferred to the Registration and Drug Control Department at the Ministry of Health which said they have been prohibited in local markets.

“The trademark is not registered in the UAE with no studies or test certificates found in this respect.”

The consignment is kept at the Dubai Cargo Village for legal action.

The importing company, failing to submit the permit required in advance from the department concerned, faces charges of customs evasion under Federal Law No. 20/1983 which streamlines the profession of pharmacy and pharmaceutical institutions.

“The company was slapped with a hefty fine, the contraband was confiscated and destroyed.”

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com