A medical store owner in Surat has been arrested for allegedly repackaging a veterinary supplement in bottles labelled as children’s medicine and selling it at nearly double the price, raising serious concerns over child safety.
Veterinary Supplement Allegedly Sold as Children’s Medicine
A disturbing case of alleged medical fraud has come to light in Surat, Gujarat, where a medical store owner was arrested for allegedly selling a supplement meant for animals as a liver tonic for children.
According to police, the accused, identified as Mohammad Sajid Ibrahim Mulla, 51, owned Shantinath Medical Store in the Gopipura locality of Surat.
A joint team of the Surat Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) raided the shop following information about the alleged sale of the product.
Fake Labels Used on Small Bottles
Investigators allege that Mulla transferred Himalaya Liv.52 Protec Liquid Veterinary Feed Supplement, intended for animals, from large containers into smaller bottles of 60 ml and 100 ml.
Police said he allegedly attached counterfeit labels bearing the name Himalaya Liv.52 Drops, a paediatric product, to make the repackaged liquid appear suitable for children. The product was reportedly sold to parents as a children’s liver tonic, despite being intended for veterinary use.
Around 1,000 Bottles Allegedly Sold
According to police statements reported by the media, the accused allegedly prepared around 1,000 small bottles over the past year. Investigators also alleged that the product was sold at approximately twice its price.
During the raid, authorities seized the veterinary supplement, bottles carrying labels and other materials valued at around ₹31,195, according to reports.
Police Register Case, Investigation Underway
An FIR was registered at Athwa police station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including sections relating to endangering human life, forgery and selling a drug as a different drug.
Police have urged anyone who purchased the suspected product and experienced adverse health effects to seek medical attention promptly.
Parents Urged to Check Medicines Carefully
The case has raised concerns about the risks posed by falsely labelled medicines and supplements, particularly products given to young children. Authorities have advised consumers to verify the authenticity of medicines with their doctors and follow medical guidance when administering treatment.
The allegations against the accused remain subject to the ongoing investigation and judicial process.