On October 10, a 63-year-old man was caught selling illegal weight loss medications in Angra dos Reis, Brazil, during a police operation named "Fake Pen" aimed at curbing the underground trade of pharmaceuticals. The operation was a response to increasing concerns about the safety and legitimacy of medications being sold in the area. The police reported that they discovered the man utilizing false prescriptions to acquire these medications, which he then sold at approximately R$ 310 each.

Eyewitness testimonies during the investigation revealed that the suspect was well-known for frequently engaging in this illicit trade, typically arranging delivery locations near his residence. This pattern indicated a level of premeditation and regularity in his criminal activities. Furthermore, the individual was operating without any sanitary oversight, technical qualifications, or authorization from the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), highlighting the significant risks posed to consumers seeking weight loss solutions from unregulated sources.

The operation underscores the Brazilian authorities' commitment to combating illegal drug trade practices, particularly as counterfeit pharmaceuticals can endanger public health. With ongoing operations like "Fake Pen," the police hope to raise awareness of the risks associated with unverified medications and deter similar illegal activities in the future.