Import of substandard Immunoglobulin injections Former Deputy Director of Health Services arrested

• Several high-profile arrests have also been made

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Former Deputy Director of Health Services Herath Kumara had been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over the import of substandard Immunoglobulin injections.  

Several high-profile arrests have been made in connection with the case, including the former Secretary of the Ministry of Health, the Director of the Health Ministry’s Medical Supplies Division, three other officials from the same division and the owner of the relevant company alleged to have imported the batch of substandard immunoglobulin vials through forged documents.  

Earlier, six suspects, including former Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Janaka Sri Chandragupta were further remanded in connection with the case, until 10 January 2024 by the Maligakanda Magistrate.  

On 14 December, Maligakanda Magistrate Lochani Abeywickrama expressed suspicion over the actions of the former Secretary of the Ministry of Health in the procurement process of the ‘substandard’ human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). The Magistrate ordered the arrest of all responsible parties, regardless of their positions, to ensure justice regarding the provision of substandard medicine to the public.  The CID also recorded statements from former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella over the scam.