Growth hormone among drug seizure

Human growth hormones and drugs for erectile dysfunction were among illegal medicines seized in Northern Ireland as part of an international operation.

The Department of Health has confirmed the drugs were among those recovered as part of a clampdown on buying medicine over the internet.

Operation Pangea Two involved investigations in 24 countries.

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has warned the public that purchasing such illegal drugs is "highly dangerous".

Other drugs seized included benzylpiperazine, a recreational drug which affects the body in a way similar to amphetamines.

It is understood a number of people have been prosecuted as a result of the operation.

Blind

Doctor Martin Mawhinney, who is part of the Department of Health's investigation team, said anyone taking the drugs was taking a significant risk.

"These drugs did not come through the regulated system," Doctor Mawhinney said.

"They are being manufactured by organisations or by individuals who are not licensed in any way.

"We have therefore no control over the conditions in which they are being manufactured. We have no control over the ingredients that are going into these drugs.

"We have no control over how they are being stored during distribution. Therefore people who are buying these are buying them blind."