Uncovering the Codeine Caper: Uttar Pradesh's Crackdown on Illegal Cough Syrup Trade

Uttar Pradesh Police and the FSDA have identified over a dozen suspects involved in an illegal network trading codeine-based cough syrups. This marks the state's largest crackdown on pharmaceutical trafficking, with ongoing raids and investigations into financial and inter-state connections, led by a special investigation team.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Lucknow | Updated: 11-12-2025 11:19 IST | Created: 11-12-2025 11:19 IST
Uncovering the Codeine Caper: Uttar Pradesh's Crackdown on Illegal Cough Syrup Trade
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Uttar Pradesh is witnessing its most significant crackdown on pharmaceutical trafficking, as police and the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) unveil an illegal network trading codeine-based cough syrups. This development comes after the identification of over a dozen key suspects linked to the syndicate.

A special investigation team (SIT), established by the state government, is at the forefront of this probe. The SIT aims to expose the depths of this illegal operation, which involves coordinated efforts among manufacturers, distributors, transporters, and local operators.

The state's actions follow growing concerns over the misuse of codeine-based syrups in other regions, leading to heightened enforcement across Uttar Pradesh. With FIRs registered against 128 establishments and continuous raids, further arrests and disclosures are anticipated, illustrating the state's commitment to dismantling this illicit trade.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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