INTERPOL ASIA UPDATE – Singapore leads operation against illicit pharmaceuticals and digital crimes

INTERPOL has reported that a Singapore-led international operation targeting illicit pharmaceuticals and digital criminal networks has resulted in seizures worth $15.5 million across 90 countries. The operation reportedly led to hundreds of arrests, the dismantling of organised criminal groups and the disruption of thousands of websites and social media channels linked to the sale of counterfeit medicines.

We have previously written extensively about INTERPOL’s developments and initiatives to enhance its transnational financial crime-fighting capabilities, both at the domestic and international levels.

We also recently summarised INTERPOL’s activities across China and Africa.

In another article, we reported on the latest meeting in Singapore and took another look at the INTERPOL Silver Notice. We noted how going forwards, INTERPOL intends to expand its presence in Singapore in order to tackle a surge in cybercrime around that region.  Most recently, we noted how coordination was expected to increase following a meeting between Chinese and UK law enforcement authorities.

We shall now examine a Singapore-lead operation resulting in seizures of counterfeit pharmaceuticals worth $15.5 million.

What is the latest update from Singapore?

INTERPOL is reporting how a Singapore-led operation coordinating efforts across 90 countries has resulted in the seizure of counterfeit pharmaceuticals worth $15.5 million.  It is stated that the operation has led to 269 arrests and the dismantling of 66 criminal groups involved in the illicit pharmaceutical trade.

In total, world-wide law enforcement agencies launched 392 investigations, executed 158 search warrants and disrupted 5,700 websites, social media pages, channels and automated bots used to market and sell illicit medicines.

The operation was joined by 12 African countries, which revealed a clearer picture of the flow of illicit pharmaceuticals across the region.

INTERPOL Secretary General, Valdecy Urquiza, stated as follows:

“Fake medicines are not just a fraud – they put lives at risk. Through online marketplaces and informal supply chains, criminals can exploit gaps in oversight, targeting people looking for fast or affordable treatment. The consequences can be severe, or even fatal.

For law enforcement, protecting the public means disrupting the networks behind these products by strengthening cooperation across borders. Nearly 20 years after the first Pangea operation was launched, it continues to deliver real results”.

What about other INTERPOL innovations?

We have also recently reported that Asia-Pacific law enforcement experts met to enhance asset recovery efforts using INTERPOL Silver Notices and provided more details about the INTERPOL Silver Notice, the increased use of which being something that we are tracking closely.

This includes how INTERPOL collaborated with Indian enforcement agencies to enhance international cooperation, with African law enforcement to disrupt criminal activity by way of the INTERPOL Silver Notice and also how the INTERPOL Silver Notice was featured on the agenda at the latest European Regional Conference.

Since the inception of the Silver Notice in January 2025, its use has grown exponentially.

By the end of June 2025, INTERPOL reported over 50 published Silver Notices worldwide.

We also recently reported on the UK City of London Police’s use of a Silver Notice, and Operation Synergia III tackles global cybercrime network.

How Gherson can help

Those who suspect that they may be subject to INTERPOL measures, including a Red (or Blue) Notice or diffusion, should take heed.

Gherson Solicitors continue to receive requests for expert advice and assistance from those who believe they may have outstanding financial issues which could engage INTERPOL. That advice tackles:

1. How best to approach a possible INTERPOL notice;
2. Preparing for potential criminal proceedings / an extradition request;
3. Preparing for a situation where a civil matter or commercial dispute could be used to initiate bogus criminal proceedings; and
4. Even exploring the possibility of instigating civil litigation proceedings to recover any misappropriated assets.

Gherson have previously written a series of blogs designed to assist those who suspect they may be subject to INTERPOL measures (including a Blue and a Red Notice):

• INTERPOL and Red Notice Challenges
• How to Remove an INTERPOL Red Notice
• INTERPOL Red Notices and Extradition
• How do I know if I am subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice?
• What is INTERPOL’s Silver Notice?
• INTERPOL UPDATE – India charges 8 people in first Interpol Silver Notice Case
• What is an INTERPOL Yellow Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL-United Nations Security Council Special Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Purple Notice?
• What is an INTERPOL Green Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Orange Notice and can it be challenged?
• What is the purpose of an INTERPOL Blue Notice, and can it be challenged?
• What is an INTERPOL Blue Notice?

Gherson has over 37 years of experience in assisting with all aspects of INTERPOL, Red Notice challenges and extradition. If you would like to speak to us in respect of any of the issues raised in this blog or about your specific circumstances, do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog.  For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson.  Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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