The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has raided an illegal processing facility in Islamabad, uncovering 500 kilograms of what is believed to be human placenta, leading to the arrest of five individuals.The operation, reported by the BBC, revealed a syndicate allegedly smuggling placenta from hospitals to produce anti-ageing injections.

Officials intercepted a 100kg shipment bound for Vietnam, with suspects purchasing placenta from Islamabad and Rawalpindi hospitals at Rs800 per piece.The group is accused of processing 200kg monthly for export, with each injection costing Rs700,000.Interrogations confirmed the material was human, not sheep as initially claimed.

The FIA suspects the network operates beyond Islamabad, investigating potential complicity from immigration officers, waste management companies, and hospitals.Harvesting human organs for commercial use carries up to 10 years in jail and fines of Rs1 million.Experts note placenta, considered highly infectious medical waste, is rich in nutrients but strictly regulated.The case highlights illegal medical trade and ethical concerns over organ trafficking.