1,090 kg of illegal veterinary medicines worth nearly Rs. 3 million destroyed!!

A stock of 1,090 kilograms of illegal veterinary medicines worth nearly Rs. 3 million was destroyed following a joint raid conducted by the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) and the Animal Production and Health Department (DAPH).

The raid was carried out on June 9, during which the authorities detected veterinary medicines that had not been registered with the DAPH and did not meet the required standards.

The seized stock, estimated to have a market value of around Rs. 3 million, was identified as a violation of Section 17 of the Animal Diseases Act.

Authorities warned that the use of non-compliant veterinary medicines could pose risks not only to animal health but also to consumers of animal-derived products such as meat, milk and eggs.

The relevant manufacturer was subsequently summoned and questioned. During the inquiry, the manufacturer admitted the offence and submitted an affidavit acknowledging the illegal manufacture and intended distribution of the products.

The entire stock was destroyed yesterday (17) under the supervision of CAA and DAPH officials at the Kerawalapitiya clinical waste disposal facility. The manufacturer concerned bore the full cost of destroying the medicines.

Authorities urged consumers who purchase medicines, vitamins or animal feed for pets or livestock to check whether the products have the required DAPH registration.

Consumers were also advised to check manufacturing and expiry dates and purchase only products carrying the required information and complying with applicable standards.