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4,600 Product Listings Were Removed Because of The Strict Investigation Launched By Singapore Government

Jayson 06 Nov 2023 06:57

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has taken down more than 4,600 listings of illegal health products and seized more than 60,000 illegal health products at border checkpoints during an eight-day Internet enforcement campaign, according to Singapore media sources.



The HSA (31 October) reported that from 3-10 October, it had taken down 4,681 listings of illegal health products from local e-commerce and social media platforms, and seized 6,037,000 items of illegal health products at border gates during its participation in the Interpol-coordinated "Operation Pangea"  in collaboration with different law enforcement agencies.



The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) noted that most of the listings removed were lifestyle-related products, of which 30 % were aphrodisiacs and 14 % were beauty products such as hyaluronic acid dermal fillers (dermal fillers). During the week-long enforcement operation, the Health Sciences Authority, in cooperation with other local law enforcement agencies, also seized different illegal health products.



The packaging of the products claimed to contain injectable placenta, anti-aging and anti-wrinkle properties, etc., and stated that they were made in Switzerland. However, investigations revealed that neither the products nor the manufacturing company were registered in Switzerland. The case has now been referred to Interpol's overseas law enforcement agency for further investigation.



The Health Sciences Authority said that none of the illegal health products that were removed or seized had been assessed or approved by the state, and some of the imported products should also be dispensed by doctors or pharmacists according to the individual's condition, which may have serious health implications if not used properly.

The Health Sciences Authority also actively monitors e-commerce platforms and social media platforms or takes action when informed of public notifications. It is an offense to sell prescription drugs, medical devices, or related health products without a license, and offenders will be charged in court and can be imprisoned for up to 3 years or fined up to $100,000, or both if convicted.