The Federal Investigation Agency has uncovered what investigators describe as a major alleged human placenta trafficking network, claiming that placenta discarded after childbirth was collected from hospitals and sent abroad to manufacture anti-aging injections. Officials say the investigation is expanding as authorities examine the alleged involvement of multiple individuals and organisations linked to the suspected operation.
According to investigators, a single anti-aging injection made from human placenta can reportedly sell for as much as Rs700,000 in Pakistan. Authorities have identified alleged agents operating in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Peshawar. During the investigation, officials also intercepted a shipment reportedly destined for Vietnam, with one seized consignment weighing approximately 580 kilogrammes and packed into 30 cartons.
The investigation suggests that nearly 200 kilogrammes of placenta may have been collected every month from hospitals. The FIA has shortlisted around 200 hospitals in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Peshawar to obtain records and gather further evidence. Investigators are also examining the possible role of customs officials and medical waste management companies in the alleged network.
Meanwhile, a judicial magistrate in Islamabad extended the physical remand of five suspects by one day after the FIA requested additional time to continue the investigation. The agency had sought seven days of custody, arguing that further questioning was necessary. The court directed investigators to produce the accused again after the completion of the remand period.
Separately, the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences explained its medical waste disposal procedures, stating that placenta from 60 to 70 daily births is processed through a monitored disposal system. Hospital officials said every stage, from collection to disposal, is documented, weighed and monitored through CCTV surveillance. They added that although organic burial is an alternative disposal method, it is not practical because of resource limitations and the risk of disturbance by animals. The allegations remain under investigation, and authorities say legal action will depend on the evidence collected.