The Hawks in the Western Cape have confirmed that additional arrests have been made in connection with an illegal steroid lab that was uncovered in Paarl last year.

According to the Hawks, 40-year-old Clementhea Barbara Stoffels and 39-year-old Cheslin Cornelius briefly appeared in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

The pair were later added with the other two accused at the Paarl Regional Court, who were initially arrested in connection with the matter.

The discovery was reportedly made on 12 February 2025 by the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) working together with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).

The arrest stems from a tip-off received in 2023 regarding steroids that were couriered from Franschoek and distributed to local recipients.

Investigations into the matter began in January 2023 when the officials intercepted parcels containing steroids that were couriered from Franschoek and distributed to local recipients.

According to the Hawks, the parcels were intercepted and sent to the laboratory for testing, the results of which came back positive.

“Two suspects were identified, and further investigation was conducted. The team finally identified the premises and found them fully operational,” said Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani

Hani says a search and seizure operation was authorised and conducted.

During the search, pressing, sorting, and labelling machines, scales, and ovens were reportedly discovered. Additionally, powder and suspected Schedule 4 medicines were also discovered.

Hanio says Stoffels and Cornelius were released on R500 bail each and the matter has been remanded to the 05 March 2026 for defense to consult with clients.

READ MORE: Hawks bust illegal steroid lab in Paarl