#StopFakeMeds #ThinkSmart
The second typology of producers of fake medicines concerns drug cartels that are diversifying into lucrative markets, including the production of fake medicines. Specializing in illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin, they turn to the production of fake medicines, including fake opioids, stimulants, and leading medical treatments.
The Sinaloa Cartel or the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) in Mexico are powerful drug cartels and are mainly involved in the production of opioids such as fentanyl. Falsified fentanyl, often disguised as prescription medicines like oxycodone, is produced in clandestine labs in Mexico with precursor chemicals from China. Fentanyl is often sold as a legitimate pain reliever, making it extremely dangerous. They use sophisticated distribution networks to sell fake medicines in North America.
Although traditionally specialized in cocaine, some Colombian cartels have also diversified into the production of fake drugs. They target markets where drug regulation is weak, particularly in Latin America, with products such as fake antibiotics, painkillers, or drugs for chronic diseases.
The Chinese Triads that operate in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan such as Sun Yee On, 14K Triad, Wo Shing Wo or Big Circle Gang, have developed, among their illegal activities, the production and export of fake medicines such as opioid medicines. These organizations often collaborate with Mexican and Latin American cartels to provide raw materials and organize complex supply chains.
Their connections in the illegal maritime trade would allow them to ensure the clandestine transport of fake medicines via African or South American ports.
Thanks to their international connections, particularly in the Chinese communities of Africa and South America, these triads serve as relays for the export of fake medicines produced in China to markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Middle East where other criminal networks are involved in distribution.
Criminal organizations in West Africa, such as Black Axe Confraternity (BAC) or Maphite in Nigeria, are involved in the production and distribution of fake medicines, particularly in African and Asian markets. This includes counterfeit treatments for malaria, HIV/AIDS, and other critical diseases. These cartels exploit weak and corrupt health systems in developing regions.
Other networks of the production of fake medicines that are not directly affiliated with triads or cartels operate in a grey area between the formal and informal economy. These networks are often protected by local corruption and exploit loopholes in regulation to produce fake medicines on a large scale.
