Two Indian nationals face US charges over alleged fake Ozempic distribution network (Images: X)
Florida (US): Two Indian nationals have been charged in the United States over an alleged international counterfeit drug operation involving fake Ozempic, a widely used prescription medication for diabetes and weight management. A federal grand jury in Florida has accused Swapandip Roy, Vicky Ramancha and their alleged associates of running a scheme to distribute counterfeit Ozempic products to US buyers at significantly reduced prices. The charges were filed in the Middle District of Florida.
Roy, who was extradited from Italy to the US, appeared before a federal court in Tampa on Tuesday. Both Roy and Ramancha are facing charges related to alleged smuggling, conspiracy to defraud the United States and the sale of counterfeit prescription drugs. According to the US Department of Justice, the accused could face a maximum sentence of up to 71 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
Court documents claim that the alleged operation took place between July 2023 and April 2024. Investigators said counterfeit Ozempic products were sourced from unauthorised suppliers in China before being distributed in the United States. Authorities allege that the fake products were designed to look authentic, with imitation packaging, labels, inserts and needles. The investigation claims these materials were used to convince customers and distributors that they were purchasing genuine medication approved by the manufacturer.
The indictment states that the alleged activity continued even after the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seized some counterfeit Ozempic products in December 2023 and issued a public warning. The Justice Department said its Office of International Affairs played a role in securing Roy’s detention after his arrest under an INTERPOL Red Notice. It later pursued his extradition from Italy to face proceedings in the US.
US officials have highlighted concerns over the risks posed by fake prescription drugs entering the pharmaceutical supply chain. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division said counterfeit medicines can threaten public safety, adding that authorities would continue targeting individuals involved in deceptive drug distribution.
FDA officials also warned that counterfeit medicines can create serious risks for consumers by bypassing regulated pharmaceutical systems. The case remains based on allegations, and the accused will have the opportunity to contest the charges in court.
