Argentina fentanyl investigation targets former ANMAT officials

An investigation into contaminated fentanyl in Argentina has led to the detention and subsequent release of two former regulatory officials, Nélida Agustina Bisio, former head of ANMAT, and Gabriela Mantecon Fumado, former head of INAME. Prosecutors allege a “manto de cobertura estatal” (state coverage cloak) allowed laboratories HLB Pharma Group S.A. and Laboratorios Ramallo S.A. to continue production despite “pésimas condiciones de calidad” (terrible quality conditions).

The contamination is linked to nearly 100 deaths and over 40 serious injuries, an event described by prosecutors as the “máxima tragedia sanitaria registrada en el país” (maximum sanitary tragedy recorded in the country). Investigations suggest that officials were aware of high-risk scenarios and manufacturing irregularities, including unqualified personnel and substandard facility hygiene, yet failed to take action.

The laboratories, controlled by the García family, reportedly had a history of non-compliance with medicinal manufacturing practices. The case is being led by prosecutors María Laura Roteta and Sergio Leonardo Rodríguez.