A 55-year-old quack was arrested on Friday for giving prescriptions and treatment to patients in his clinic cum pharmacy at Panchur village near Jolarpet town in Tirupattur.

Health officials said the arrested quack was identified as V. Ramachandran, a native of Jollagoundanur village near Natrampalli town. He has completed a diploma course in pharmacy.

He was offering medical treatment to patients in Pachur village on Tirupattur – Krishnagiri High Road for the past few years without professional qualification. He converted his rented house into a clinic and pharmacy for patients in the remote hamlet. Every day, on average, 35-50 patients wait before her pharmacy for treatment. 

Health officials suspected his activities. A special medical team led by V. Gnana Meenakshi, Joint Director of Health Services, conducted a surprise check in the house after health officials got complaints from residents. The medical team also included a doctor, a pharmacist and a drug inspector. 

During the searches, health officials found many used medical equipment, prescriptions and letterheads in the clinic, which was set up on the rear side of the pharmacy. They also found used syringes, capsules and other medical equipment inside the clinic. 

The clinic and pharmacy were sealed. The team also seized medical equipment, including blood pressure apparatus, stethoscope, and syringes. The accused was said to be a first time offender. A case was registered by Natrampalli police before he was lodged at sub-jail in Tirupattur town. A probe is underway.