Argentina fentanyl investigation: former ANMAT head to testify

An investigation into contaminated fentanyl batches that caused nearly 100 deaths in Argentina has led to new judicial developments. Nélida Agustina Bisio, the former head of the National Administration of Drugs, Foods and Medical Technology (ANMAT), is scheduled to testify before Federal Judge Ernesto Kreplak in La Plata. Bisio had previously appeared in court but declined to answer questions; she is now required to expand her statement.

Two former officials, Bisio and Gabriela Mantecón Fumadó, the former director of the National Institute of Medicines (INAME), were previously detained but later released after paying significant bail. The investigation focuses on the failure of state oversight regarding laboratories HLB Pharma, Ramallo S.A., and those linked to businessman Ariel García Furfaro.

Specific batches of the opioid, manufactured in December 2024 and distributed in January 2025, were found to be contaminated with the bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae and Ralstonia pickettii. Despite prior warnings from inspections, the laboratories continued operations. The case has also drawn political attention following phone transcripts that mention the Minister of Health, prompting discussions in the Chamber of Deputies regarding ANMAT’s regulatory functions.