The national gendarmerie declared that it had dismantled a vast drug trafficking network in Clermont-Ferrand. Pregabalin, a treatment for epileptic seizures misused by drug addicts, was notably trafficked.
A vast drug trafficking network containing pregabalin, a treatment for epileptic seizures diverted by drug addicts, was dismantled in Clermont-Ferrand, the national gendarmerie said on Friday.
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Four people were indicted on Thursday and capsules worth 750,000 euros seized as part of this operation, according to a press release sent to AFP.
Two employees stole the drugs and diverted them
The case began in early May when several customers of a pharmaceutical distribution company reported anomalies linked to unfulfilled orders for their pregabalin treatment.
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An internal investigation revealed that more than 600,000 tablets were stolen between May and August, for damage estimated at 300,000 euros.
Investigators from the Clermont-Ferrand Research Section and the Central Office for Combating Environmental and Public Health Attacks (Oclaps) then took over.
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They identified two employees who were stealing the drugs and diverting them for the benefit of a network of traffickers operating in the Clermont region.
Seizure of 245,000 capsules estimated at 750,000 euros
Monday and Tuesday, four individuals were arrested following a new theft of two pallets of pregabalin (2,304 boxes), then indicted and placed in pre-trial detention.
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A search led to the seizure of 245,000 capsules, with an estimated value of 750,000 euros, more than 200,000 euros in cash, contraband cigarettes, four firearms including two assault rifles, eight hand grenades, several hundreds of munitions and various narcotics.
Medicines containing pregabalin are prescribed for epilepsy but also to treat generalized anxiety disorders and neuropathic pain. Their misuse can lead to complications such as coma, impaired consciousness and can lead to death.
Faced with the increase in cases of abuse, dependence and falsified prescriptions, the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) restricted in May 2021 the conditions for prescribing pregabalin, which is now limited to six months and is the subject of a secure and tamper-proof order.
