Indonesian law enforcement agencies are digging deeper into allegations of negligence by the national food and drug watchdog, Bpom, in a controversy surrounding lethal cough syrups that claimed the lives of over 200 children. This probe forms part of a broadening investigation concerning a wider issue of tainted cough syrups linked to child fatalities across several nations, including Gambia and Uzbekistan.
The tainted syrups were found to contain harmful industrial-grade chemicals instead of medicinal-grade ingredients, causing severe health implications. These deadly concoctions were traced back to eight individuals from local firms responsible for importing and distributing raw materials to the pharmaceutical manufacturers.
This escalating situation has put Bpom, Indonesia’s drugs regulatory body, under intense scrutiny, as global and local forces demand accountability. Although no formal accusations have been made against Bpom officials yet, several have been brought in for interrogation. Andika Urrasyidin, the case’s lead investigator, stated that while the investigation was ongoing, actions would need to be taken if any wrongdoing was identified.
The officials were interrogated as witnesses rather than suspects, with questions focusing on the nature of their supervision over these harmful products’ distribution. This process has mainly involved staff from lower levels, with Bpom’s chief, Penny Lukito, remaining out of the crosshairs.
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Interestingly, Bpom attributes the rise in acute kidney injury cases to multiple parties exploiting a loophole in the safety guarantee system. It alleges that pharmaceutical companies did not adequately verify the raw materials they used in their products.
Earlier this year, authorities unveiled that a company sold industrial-grade toxins, namely ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol, as pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol. These dangerous chemicals, which are significantly cheaper, can be used unethically as substitutes for propylene glycol, a vital component in syrup-based medicines.
The companies entangled in this scandal include drug manufacturer Afi Farma, alleged to have sold the tainted syrups, chemical supplier CV Samudera Chemical, and distributors Tirta Buana Kemindo and Anugrah Perdana Gemilang. All four companies have been charged in the case, with Afi Farma’s trial having already commenced.
Adding another layer to this complex saga, Bpom faces a separate class-action lawsuit initiated by grieving parents. Their children either perished or are now suffering from the long-term consequences of acute kidney injury due to the harmful cough syrups. As the investigation and court proceedings continue, the search for justice and accountability persists.
This news is based on information from the Malaymail website.
