In a significant breakthrough, the JR Puram police in Srikakulam have arrested a gang of eight individuals, including employees of top pharmaceutical firms, for stealing Semaglutide, a valuable anti-diabetic and weight-loss medicine, from Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories in Pydibheemavaram. The stolen substance, weighing around 450 grams, is valued at over ₹2 crore. The key accused include Dronadulu Suresh, a chemist at Dr. Reddy’s, Gajula Venkata Raghavendra, a warehouse staff member, and Guntaka Suresh Reddy, a chemist at MSN Pharma in Hyderabad, who is believed to be the main receiver of the stolen substance.
The investigation revealed that the Semaglutide powder was produced on February 17, 2025, and stored in the warehouse freezer, but it was found missing on February 23. A subsequent audit in May discovered that 3.38 kg of Palladium Acetate, worth ₹60 lakh, was also missing. Palladium Acetate is a crucial catalyst in organic chemical reactions, and its theft raises concerns about the potential risks of counterfeit medicines in circulation.
The police formed three special teams to investigate the case, led by Inspector M. Avatharam. The investigation led to the recovery of 440 grams of stolen Semaglutide and 460 grams of fake powder from the gang. The arrests and recoveries have brought to light a worrying breach in pharmaceutical security, highlighting the need for stricter measures to prevent such thefts and ensure the safety of medicines.
The case has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, as Semaglutide is a critical medicine used for type 2 diabetes and weight management. The theft and potential circulation of counterfeit Semaglutide pose serious risks to public health, and the authorities must take swift action to prevent such incidents in the future. The police have successfully cracked the case, but the incident serves as a wake-up call for the pharmaceutical industry to strengthen its security measures and protect the integrity of its products.