The NAS Carabinieri have successfully concluded “SHIELD IV,” an acronym for Safe Health Implementation, Enforcement, and Legal Development, marking a significant international operation aimed at safeguarding public health and combating pharmaceutical crime.
Spanning from April to November 2023, under the auspices of EUROPOL, this operation saw the exclusive involvement of the Italian Carabinieri Command for Health Protection alongside the Greek Police, the French OCLAESP, and the Spanish Guardia Civil. With the participation of 28 countries (19 EU member states and 9 third countries), supported by organizations like OLAF, EUIPO, Frontex, WADA, and the World Customs Organization, the operation targeted various aspects of pharmaceutical crime, including counterfeiting, supply chain diversion, theft, and illicit trafficking.
Particular attention was given to tackling online pharmaceutical crime, which has seen a sharp rise due to the anonymity of the internet and regulatory disparities among different countries.
The NAS Carabinieri, once again this year, assumed the critical role of co-leader of EUROPOL, enabling them to participate actively in decision-making processes and coordinate activities among participating countries. They also led efforts within the EMPACT 3.5 project on counterfeit drugs.
At the national level, the NAS Carabinieri conducted 133 inspections and law enforcement activities, leading to 82 judicial and administrative proceedings, resulting in 5 arrests and 126 referrals to judicial authorities.
Significant seizures of medicines, doping substances, supplements, medical devices, and COVID-19 related products were made, amounting to over 130,000 packages and approximately 310,000 units.
Additionally, collaborative efforts led to the discovery and seizure of two clandestine laboratories, yielding substantial quantities of substances and precursors.
Overall, Operation “SHIELD IV” dismantled 52 criminal groups across participating countries, seizing thousands of pharmaceutical units with a commercial value of €64 million. Four clandestine laboratories were also seized, and 92 websites were shut down in Italy.
This operation not only focused on enforcement but also involved daily monitoring of online sales and illicit advertising of medicines. Collaboration with sports authorities resulted in the screening of 783 athletes, with 79 testing positive.
Furthermore, it fostered institutional cooperation between the NAS and the Customs and Monopolies Agency, aligning with established protocols. Operation “SHIELD IV” achieved significant milestones in combating pharmaceutical crime, ensuring public safety, and fostering international cooperation.
