Four people were indicted and placed in pre-trial detention after this operation, during which 245,000 capsules were seized. The operation made it possible to confiscate medicines with an estimated value of 750,000 euros.
Pregabalin, marketed under the name Lyrica, is commonly used for addictive purposes in the streets, particularly because of its low cost, explains Colonel Ludovic Ehrhart, head of the Central Office for Combating Environmental Attacks. and public health (Oclaesp).
A growing phenomenon
« Drug trafficking has exploded in the last three or four years“continues Colonel Ehrhart. This trafficking, often controlled by organized criminal groups, has a direct impact on public security. In fact, they contribute to the increase in violent attacks and thefts, specify the police.
Internal thefts at the origin of the investigation
The investigation began in May, following reports of anomalies in orders from a pharmaceutical company. After internal investigations, it was revealed that more than 600,000 tablets had been stolen between May and August, costing 300,000 euros. These drugs were intended for a network of traffickers operating in the Clermont-Ferrand region.
Impressive seizures and arrests
During the operation, the gendarmerie seized not only the 245,000 capsules, but also more than 200,000 euros in cash, contraband cigarettes, as well as weapons, including two assault rifles, eight hand grenades and several hundred rounds of ammunition.
The dangers of misusing pregabalin
Pregabalin can cause serious effects if misused: coma, impaired consciousness and fatal risks are among the possible complications linked to its abusive consumption.
Faced with the increase in abuse and dependence, the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) has tightened the prescription conditions for pregabalin since May 2021. The drug is now prescribed for a maximum duration of six months and requires a secure, tamper-proof prescription.
With AFP
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