More than 460,000 counterfeit 3M N-95 surgical masks that were on their way to Puget Sound area first responders were intercepted by federal investigators, Homeland Security officials said. The masks are a critical tool used by health care providers and first responders to protect themselves from the spread of COVID-19 and other airborne dangers.
Seven local organizations had bought the masks, which were worth nearly $600,000 at list prices, but officials said many victim organizations have had to pay well over list price in competing for limited supplies.
“Counterfeit surgical masks are a serious threat to the front-line personnel who rely on them as they bravely combat this pandemic. Ensuring the integrity of the PPE supply chain is of utmost importance,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees Homeland Security operations in the Pacific Northwest.
Earlier this month it was discovered hundreds of thousands of fake masks had been distributed to hospitals across the state.