New Delhi (October 13 UNI): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday launched search operations at multiple locations across Chennai, including the residences of senior Tamil Nadu drug control officials, in connection with the alleged “killer” cough syrup case that resulted in the deaths of several children.
The raids are part of a money laundering investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Sreesan Pharma, the manufacturer of the “Coldrif” brand cough syrup. Officials said the agency is conducting searches at seven premises linked to the company and regulatory authorities.
The action signifies a critical turn in the case, shifting it from a public health tragedy to a full-fledged financial crime investigation. The ED is probing potential proceeds of crime generated from the alleged sale of the spurious syrup and examining if there was a larger conspiracy involving regulatory officials.
In a significant development, the agency’s teams also raided the homes of top Drug Control Department officials, indicating possible corruption and regulatory lapses that may have enabled the tainted product to reach consumers.
The case stems from a tragic incident where several children reportedly died after consuming “Coldrif” cough syrup. Following this, initial investigations were launched by health and police departments. The ED’s involvement began after it registered a case under the PMLA, taking cognizance of the First Information Report (FIR) filed by local police.
Authorities are expected to be scrutinizing financial documents, transaction records, and communication devices seized during the raids to trace the money trail and establish potential collusion.
As of now, neither the officials of Sreesan Pharma nor the Drug Control Department have issued an official statement. The ED is likely to release details upon the conclusion of the search operations.
