Federal agents tasked with investigating coronavirus-related imports have disrupted more than $17 million in transactions for prohibited or counterfeit medical items they say could have harmed the public.
Homeland Security Investigations, an office within the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement, announced Tuesday in a Senate hearing that just over 900 foreign shipments have been blocked from entering the United States as part of Operation Stolen Promise. The operation was launched 100 days ago in an effort to go after transnational criminals trying to profit from selling bogus or illegitimate personal protective equipment and pharmaceuticals amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“Although there are no approved treatments for COVID-19, that isn’t stopping fraudsters from illegally trying to sell these products and other counterfeit or prohibited medical supplies and testing kits to U.S. consumers,” said HSI acting Executive Associate Director Alyssa Erichs. “And now, in addition, we are seeing an uptick in CARES Act fraud – which has doubled since June. We are encouraging everyone to be extra cautious, especially when going online, and know the red flags, to prevent being a victim of fraud.”
More than $7 million in illicit proceeds, in addition to the $17 million in goods, has been seized. HSI launched 570 criminal investigations and arrested 53 people for involvement in international sales of fake face masks, virus cures, and more. Many items are packaged or labeled with brand name boxes despite not being manufactured by that company, making it a health risk to U.S. residents who use the product.
One such arrest was of a Canadian man who federal agents allege attempted to smuggle Chinese-made coronavirus test kits that had not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration into the U.S. In another instance, a Georgia woman is suspected of importing and selling an unregistered pesticide online that she claimed would protect users from getting the virus.
Customs and Border Protection officers inspect imports at land, air, and seaports of entry then refer suspicious items to other agencies for expert review. HSI may then investigate and pursue the case.
