Funcaps illegal drug sales linked to 21 deaths

The Dutch Public Prosecution Service (OM) believes it can link three additional deaths to substances sold through the website Funcaps, bringing the total number of suspected fatalities to 21. During a preliminary hearing in Zwolle, prosecutors stated that toxicological investigations by the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI) are ongoing for two other deaths, which could potentially raise the total to 23.

Funcaps is accused of selling sedatives and tranquilizers online without proper licenses starting in July 2020. Prosecutors allege the company failed to provide usage information or warnings about risks, instead using discount promotions and sample packs to drive sales. The OM claims the business generated 42 million euros in turnover over five years.

The suspects, including Jord van W. and Stefan P., deny the allegations. The defense argues that the products were marketed as research chemicals not intended for human consumption and that the company had adequately emphasized the harmful nature of the substances. Two of the suspects have previously received prison sentences in Belgium for similar illegal drug trafficking charges.