An INTERPOL‑coordinated international operation, known as Operation Pangea XVIII, was conducted between 10 and 23 March 2026 across 90 countries and territories.
Law enforcement agencies involved in the operation reported the seizure of approximately 6.42 million doses of unapproved or counterfeit medicines, with an estimated value of USD 15.5 million.
Authorities reported that 269 individuals were arrested and 66 organised criminal groups were dismantled in connection with the production, trafficking, and sale of illicit pharmaceutical products. The operation also resulted in the opening of 392 investigations and the execution of 158 search warrants.
In addition, approximately 5,700 websites, social media pages, online marketplaces, and automated systems associated with the distribution or promotion of illegal medicines were identified and disrupted.
The items seized included a range of products such as prescription medicines, sedatives, antibiotics, and other substances sold without authorisation.
