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A coordinated Europe-wide crackdown led by Europol, with Cyprus among the participating countries, has resulted in thousands of prosecutions and the seizure of illegal pharmaceuticals valued at more than €33 million.
The operation, known as SHIELD VI, was carried out between April and November 2025 under the EMPACT framework. Law enforcement agencies from 30 countries took part, working together to disrupt the trade in counterfeit medicines, anabolic steroids and illicit dietary supplements. Europol oversaw the effort, which was supported by INTERPOL, Frontex and the World Anti-Doping Agency, among other partners.
Authorities reported significant enforcement outcomes across participating states. Investigators opened 907 cases, targeted 43 criminal networks and initiated legal proceedings against 3,354 suspects. The operation also led to the confiscation of large quantities of medicines, medical devices and performance-enhancing substances, while dozens of illegal websites and clandestine laboratories were uncovered and shut down.
Cyprus contributed through coordinated actions by the Police, including YKAN and the Crime Combating Department’s Intellectual Property and Illegal Betting Branch, together with the Customs Department. Local operations during SHIELD VI resulted in the seizure of 6,753 pills, ampoules and other anabolic products.
In its latest statement, Europol warned that buying medicines from unregulated online sources continues to fuel organized crime and poses serious dangers to consumers. Authorities highlighted growing concern over counterfeit products containing semaglutide, as well as drugs made with powerful synthetic ingredients that can increase the risk of poisoning and overdose.
