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The announcement comes as the US continues to target international organisations involved in fentanyl production and trafficking
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In recent years, sanctions and restrictions have also been imposed on groups and companies based in China and Mexico over similar allegations
The United States has imposed visa restrictions on 13 people linked to an Indian online pharmacy accused of distributing counterfeit prescription drugs containing fentanyl across America. The move was announced by the United States Department of State on Tuesday.
According to the US government, the individuals are close associates of KS International Traders, an online pharmacy operating from India. American authorities allege that the company sold large quantities of fake prescription pills that were secretly mixed with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid linked to thousands of overdose deaths in the US.
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In its statement, the State Department said the pharmacy had distributed “hundreds of thousands” of counterfeit pills to unsuspecting customers in the United States
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Officials also claimed the company earned significant profits through illegal fentanyl trafficking
The US administration has increased its crackdown on the global fentanyl trade in recent years. President Donald Trump has previously described fentanyl as a “Weapon of Mass Destruction” because of its deadly impact on American communities.
The latest visa restrictions mean the 13 individuals will not be allowed to enter the United States. Washington said the action reflects the shared commitment of the US and India to fight illegal drug networks and stop the spread of dangerous narcotics.
