Two quacks were arrested on Saturday for giving prescriptions and treatment to patients in their clinic cum pharmacy near Tirupattur town.

Health officials said the arrested quacks were K. Elango, 68, and S. Santhosh, 36. Elango completed graduation in nursing whereas Santhosh had a diploma in nursing. The arrested persons were offering medical treatment to patients in surrounding villages near Tirupattur town for the past few years without professional qualification. They converted their rented house into a clinic and pharmacy for patients in the remote hamlet. Every day, on average, 35-50 patients wait at the clinics for treatment. 

A special medical team led by V. Gnana Meenakshi, Joint Director of Health Services, inspected the house after complaints from residents. The medical team included a doctor, a pharmacist, and a drug inspector. 

During the search, health officials found many used medical equipment, prescriptions and letterheads at the clinic.  

The clinic cum pharmacy was sealed. The team also seized the medical equipment. A case was registered by Tirupattur Taluk police before the duo were lodged at sub-jail in Tirupattur town. A probe is under way.