A vast network of theft and resale of drugs containing pregabalin was dismantled by the authorities in Clermont-Ferrand. This substance, initially prescribed to treat epilepsy or generalized anxiety disorders, is misused by drug addicts due to its euphoric and disinhibiting effects.
That's 600,000 tablets stolen in three months
Customers at several pharmacies in the region complained of not receiving their pregabalin orders. An internal investigation carried out by a pharmaceutical wholesaler revealed that between May and August 2024, more than 600,000 tablets, with an estimated value of 300,000 euros, had disappeared during transport to semi-wholesalers.
The investigations of the gendarmes of the Clermont-Ferrand research section, supported by Oclaesp (Central Office for the fight against attacks on the environment and public health), made it possible to trace up to four suspects aged around thirty years old, including two employees of the pharmaceutical distribution company. The latter are suspected of having stolen pallets of medicines to supply organized trafficking.
Searches: weapons, grenades and cash seized
The searches led to the seizure of 245,000 pregabalin capsules, representing an estimated value of 750,000 euros on the black market. But that's not all: investigators also discovered 374 packs of contraband cigarettes, 235,550 euros in cash, as well as four firearms, including two assault rifles, eight hand grenades, and several hundred rounds of ammunition. . These discoveries demonstrate the dangerousness of the network.
A lucrative but dangerous traffic
According to Colonel Ludovic Ehrhart, chef of l'Oclaesp:
“Pregabalin used for misused purposes can lead to serious complications, addiction and increased aggression, particularly in urban areas where these pills are sold. »
The low resale price of these tablets, oscillating between 2 and 4 euros per unit, makes them accessible and therefore attractive for drug addicts. This trafficking is also easier to organize than that of drugs such as cocaine or cannabis, according to the authorities.
A phenomenon amplified by the strengthening of prescriptions
Since 2021, the Ministry of Health has strengthened the conditions for prescribing and dispensing pregabalin to combat its misuse. This tightening has pushed traffickers to favor the theft of cargo to supply this illicit market.
An investigation still ongoing
The four suspects arrested on December 16 and 17 were indicted and placed in pre-trial detention. The authorities are continuing investigations to identify the distribution networks for these diverted drugs.
Source: Le Point
(Thank you Fabrice Guérault)
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