South Korea investigates illegal syringe stockpiling amid Iran supply crisis

South Korean police have launched an investigation into four companies suspected of illegally stockpiling medical syringes in violation of a government ban introduced amid shortages linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The National Investigation Bureau under the National Police Agency said the companies are among 32 organisations identified during an inspection by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, which was carried out to enforce compliance with the restrictions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Korean media.

The regulator made it clear that the prolonged conflict in the Middle East has disrupted naphtha supplies, leading to reduced production of several medical goods, including syringes and intravenous infusion systems.

Following confirmation of violations, the cases were handed over to the police and distributed to regional investigative units.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov