European investigators have arrested 544 people in an operation against counterfeit drugs and doping, according to the European Union's law enforcement agency (Europol).
Substances worth 63 million euros (71 million dollars) were seized, Europol announced in The Hague on Tuesday.
According to the report, medication used for doping and alleged coronavirus cures were seized.
In view of the widespread availability of vaccines, however, the European police authority observed a clear decline in the trade of such preparations.
Counterfeit medicines and other substances pose a threat to public health, Europol warned. They are produced in illegal laboratories without safety rules and the observation of hygiene regulations, and they often contained harmful substances.
26 countries involved
The Europe-wide operation "Shield II" took place from April to October and was led by investigators in France, Finland, Greece and Italy. Judicial authorities in 26 countries were involved.
Thirty-three criminal networks and 37 companies were investigated, according to Europol. About 1,400 separate investigations were opened and more than 6,500 athletes were subjected to controls.
The investigators focused on gangs dealing in doping substances and counterfeit drugs for the treatment of cancer, erectile dysfunction and allergies, as well as painkillers.
