Regulators express concerns over cargo thefts

SILVER SPRING, Md. An increase in cargo thefts of prescription and over-the-counter drugs and other products has regulators worried, according to a letter sent to several companies Wednesday.

Michael Chappell, acting assistant commissioner for regulatory affairs at the Food and Drug Administration, wrote in the letter that agency was “very concerned” about the increase in cargo and warehouse thefts of drugs, vaccines, medical devices and infant formula.

“These crimes threaten the public health because product that has left the legitimate supply chain poses potential safety risks to consumers,” Chappell wrote.

The letter comes in the wake of a sophisticated theft of $75 million in drugs from an Eli Lilly warehouse in Enfield, Conn. The agency said it hoped the letter would encourage companies to review and strengthen security.