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Investigators meticulously examined over 1500 shipments originating from India, taking action on approximately 500 products, including illegal medications intended to treat serious diseases.
NEW DELHI: The United States and India have joined forces in a bilateral multi-agency enforcement operation known as “Operation Broader Sword” to combat the international shipment of illegal drugs and unsafe medical devices. Led by various US agencies including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), in collaboration with India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the operation successfully intercepted over 500 shipments containing illicit pharmaceuticals, unapproved prescription drugs, and synthetic drug precursors destined for American consumers.
Operation Broader Sword, carried out throughout June 2023, focused on packages entering the US from India via the New York (JFK) and Chicago (ORD) International Mail Facilities (IMFs). Investigators meticulously examined over 1500 shipments originating from India, taking action on approximately 500 products, including illegal medications intended to treat serious diseases. The operation revealed that many shipments contained opioid and other controlled substance drug products. In a pre-planned move, HSI special agents conducted a controlled delivery, resulting in the arrest of an Indian national involved in the illegal importation of illicit pharmaceuticals, including opioids and controlled substances.
Mark Fredrick, DEA Country Attaché, emphasized the significance of Operation Broader Sword, stating, “Initiatives like Operation Broader Sword protect people in both the U.S. and India, helping India identify traffickers and strengthen protections against the flow of illicit drugs that may harm Indian citizens.” The operation not only intercepts illegal and potentially harmful products but also provides valuable information on shipping patterns and individuals involved, facilitating further enforcement actions against international criminal networks.
Building upon the success of a previous operation called Operation Broadsword, which targeted illicit medical products in 2020, the collaboration between the US and India aims to safeguard consumers and strengthen law enforcement efforts in both countries. By sharing intelligence and coordinating actions, Operation Broader Sword serves as a crucial mechanism for curbing the circulation of illegal drugs and unsafe medical devices, ultimately protecting the well-being of citizens in both nations.
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The joint operation demonstrates the commitment of both countries to combating transnational drug trafficking and enhancing public safety by identifying and disrupting criminal networks involved in the illicit trade of drugs and counterfeit medical products.
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