Mexico News Blog – In a recent morning press conference, the Secretary of the Navy, José Rafael Ojeda Durán, announced significant progress in the crackdown on pharmacies selling products containing fentanyl. This effort, undertaken in collaboration with the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris), has led to the closure of several establishments across Mexico.
Ojeda Durán highlighted the situation in Baja California, where numerous pharmacies involved in the illegal sale of fentanyl have been shut down. He emphasized that these pharmacies are often located in tourist hotspots and operate around the clock, making them more accessible to both locals and visitors.
The investigation, primarily targeting high-tourism areas such as Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, aims to curb the distribution of fentanyl-laced products. These actions are part of a broader strategy to combat the sale of illicit drugs in areas frequented by tourists, ensuring their safety and well-being.
31 Baja California Pharmacies Suspended
In December 2023, Cofepris suspended the activities of 31 pharmacies and points of sale in Baja California. These establishments were found to be selling medications irregularly, with some products potentially contaminated with fentanyl. The operation, dubbed Albatros II, was notable for its extensive reach, involving a large number of specialized personnel from Cofepris and coordinated efforts with the Secretary of the Navy (Semar).
Albatros II was prompted by numerous citizen complaints, underscoring the public’s role in identifying and reporting health violations. The operation included 53 verification visits to various establishments in Ensenada, resulting in the suspension of activities in 31 pharmacies. Additionally, authorities seized 4,681 boxes of medications and conducted sampling to detect possible falsifications, adulterations, or the presence of fentanyl.
This coordinated action marks a significant precedent in a region that attracts millions of tourists annually. By addressing these health irregularities, the authorities aim to enhance the safety and health standards in tourist destinations, thereby protecting both residents and visitors.
Impact on Tourist Destinations
The sale of fentanyl in tourist areas is a growing concern, as these locations often have high foot traffic and a diverse population of locals and tourists. The closures in Baja California serve as a warning to other regions, including Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, where similar investigations are ongoing.
By targeting pharmacies that sell fentanyl, authorities hope to reduce the availability of this dangerous substance, which has been linked to numerous health crises worldwide. The efforts to shut down these illegal operations are part of a larger initiative to ensure that tourists can enjoy their visits without being exposed to hazardous drugs.
Future Steps
The Secretary of the Navy and Cofepris have committed to continuing their collaboration to monitor and regulate pharmacies across Mexico. This includes ongoing investigations in other tourist-heavy areas and increased surveillance of 24-hour pharmacies, which are often implicated in the sale of illicit substances.
Citizen involvement remains crucial in these efforts. Authorities encourage the public to report any suspicious activities or health violations to help maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical market and protect public health.