Officers uncover animal drugs haul

Published Wednesday, 02 November 2011
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Thousands of pounds worth of illegal animal medicines, including veterinary antibiotics, have been seized from a home in Ballymena, Co Antrim.

The raid was carried out by the Department of Health's Medicines Enforcement Officers and the PSNI.

The drugs uncovered during the raid on Monday are intended to treat large numbers of farm animals.

A man from the Ballymena area was formally interviewed by the Medicines Regulatory Group and the case has been reported to the PPS.

Head of the Medicines Regulatory Group, Prof Mike Mawhinney said the availability of illegal veterinary medicines can have serious consequences.

"Incorrect use of medication of unknown origin or dubious quality compromises animal health, increases the risk of harmful residues in the food chain and raises the problem of unnecessary antibiotic resistance.

"The department has made it very clear that it will not tolerate the supply of illegal veterinary medicines and this operation clearly demonstrates our determination to stop this kind of activity which can pose a real risk to the general public."

Senior Medicines Enforcement Officer Peter Moore said: "To be imported, possessed and sold for use in the UK all veterinary medicines must be authorised to ensure they are safe and effective, and many must be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon.

"Even where medicines are authorised they must be distributed and sold through licensed outlets where trained staff are available to provide the necessary advice on safe use. Our advice is clear - don't be tempted to bypass the regulated system."

© UTV News
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