Authorities have uncovered a clandestine steroid manufacturing laboratory in Paarl, following a two-year investigation into an illegal drug distribution network.
The Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) team, in collaboration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), conducted a search and seizure operation on February 12, 2025, at the premises, which was found to be fully operational.
The investigation began in January 2023 when officials intercepted parcels containing steroids that were couriered from Franschhoek and distributed to local recipients.
Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of illegal substances, leading investigators to identify two suspects and track down the source of the drugs.
During the raid, authorities discovered pressing, sorting, and labelling machines, along with scales, ovens, and a supply of powder and suspected Schedule 4 medicines. The exact value of the seized steroids is yet to be determined.
A 27-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene and will appear in the Paarl Magistrate’s Court once formal charges are filed.
Officials have indicated that further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
The bust in Paarl comes a day after six people were arrested in Pretoria for running an online steroid and performance-enhancing drug syndicate.
The South African Police Service confirmed that three men and three women were taken into custody at various locations on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, following an extensive investigation.
The suspects face multiple charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, the Medicines and Related Substances Act, and the Counterfeit Goods Act.
The SAPS National Organised Crime Investigations (OCI) Narcotics Unit carried out the takedown operation, with support from the SAPS Transnational Vehicle Crime Investigation (VCI) Unit, the Gauteng Provincial Narcotics Unit, Crime Intelligence, SAPS K9 Search and Rescue, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, and the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).
Authorities revealed that the suspects were running an online business trafficking counterfeit and illicit PEDs, including steroids, stimulants, and scheduled medicines.
Forensic analysis of the seized substances confirmed the presence of banned ingredients, with one so-called “fat burner” containing Dimethylphenethylamine—an isomer of methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth or Tik.
During the arrests, officials confiscated a significant quantity of counterfeit and illicit drugs, along with electronic devices believed to have been used in the operation.
