DZWatch Exclusive: A clandestine operation producing and distributing a potentially dangerous dietary supplement has been shut down by Algerian authorities. The operation, uncovered by the National Gendarmerie’s Central Operational Service for Combating Organized Crime, targeted a network manufacturing and promoting a product known as ‘Sultan’s Mix’ through social media platforms.
Laboratory analysis revealed that ‘Sultan’s Mix,’ marketed as a blend of natural honey, nuts, and herbs, contained undisclosed pharmaceutical substances requiring a prescription. The origin of these substances is unknown, raising serious concerns about the product’s safety and potential health risks to consumers.
The investigation began after authorities received information about a craftsman in Maghnia, Tlemcen Province, producing a dietary supplement gaining popularity, particularly online. A sample sent to the National Institute of Criminalistics and Criminology of the National Gendarmerie tested positive for Sildenafil, a prescription-only medication. Sildenafil poses a significant threat to consumers, especially those with cardiovascular conditions.
Raids on the suspect’s workshop in Maghnia and a delivery service warehouse in the capital resulted in the seizure of 7,978 packages of ‘Sultan’s Mix.’ Scientific analysis confirmed the presence of Sildenafil in all seized products.
DZWatch has learned that the investigation revealed the suspect exploited his status as a craftsman to evade taxes and secure illicit financial advantages. He allegedly generated approximately 13 billion centimes in revenue within a short period. Authorities seized nearly 1.2 billion centimes in cash, all proceeds from illegal sales and financial transactions conducted outside formal banking channels.
The individuals involved in the network have been presented to the relevant judicial authorities, facing charges including money laundering, tax evasion, production and distribution of unauthorized pharmaceutical products, operating unregistered commercial services, consumer fraud, and conducting financial transactions exceeding regulated limits outside authorized banking and financial institutions.
