Twelve people have been arrested on suspicion of distributing fake Viagra from a factory in central Israel.

Undercover police officers from the Financial Intelligence Unit conducted a lengthy investigation into the factory, in a small moshav in central Israel, Ynet reports.

Police seized thousands of fake Viagra and Cialis pills. Both are prescription drugs used to treat impotence but they are a valuable commodity online as patients buy them without prescription.

The owner of a Tel Aviv advertising agency has been arrested on suspicion of promoting the fake pills. Thousands of people are believed to have purchased the pill online.

There is also an extensive investigation into alleged money laundering connected to the case.

Charges include illegal use of brand names, unauthorised distribution of medicine, recklessness and negligence, fraud, and breaking VAT and income tax laws.

Those charged will appear in Tel Aviv Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.