CID visits NMRA for human immunoglobulin IV probe

Saturday, 21 October 2023 00:32 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID) investigators visited the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) yesterday to conduct an inquiry regarding the alleged forgery of documents by the medicines importer, Isolez Biotech Pharma Ag. Ltd.

Isolez Biotech Pharma stands accused of engaging in document forgery and using these fraudulent documents to obtain clearance from Sri Lanka Customs for the importation of materials. These materials were allegedly intended for the unauthorised production of human immunoglobulin IV, which was then reportedly sold to state-owned hospitals at an inflated price.

The company allegedly submitted documents that bore the NMRA letterhead and the signature of a senior official, raising concerns of document forgery. In addition to this, the NMRA has faced significant scrutiny due to revelations that the importer managed to supply a minimum of three medicines to state hospitals despite reportedly committing multiple irregularities that went unchecked by the regulatory authority.

Recently, Maligakanda Magistrate Lochana Abeywickrama issued an order directing the CID to initiate investigations and apprehend all suspects linked to the incident. The CID was directed to complete the task before 16 November and present the individuals involved in the court for further legal proceedings.

The company’s deception was revealed following reports of allergic reactions among patients who received the drug at the Colombo National Hospital on 22 August and the Matale District Hospital on 16 September.