Police Uncover Syndicate Selling Drugs, Steriods Online

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismantled an online drug syndicate trafficking steroids, scheduled medicine, stimulants, and other performance-enhancing drugs, leading to the arrest of six suspects—three men and three women.

The arrests took place at various locations in Pretoria, with the suspects facing multiple charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, Medicines and Related Substances Act, and the Counterfeit Goods Act.

The takedown operation, conducted on Tuesday, February 11, followed extensive investigations by the SAPS National Organised Crime Investigations Narcotics Unit, supported by the SAPS’ Transnational Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit, Gauteng Provincial Narcotics Unit, Crime Intelligence, SAPS K9 Search and Rescue, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport, and the Financial Intelligence Centre.

Investigators revealed that the syndicate operated an online platform to distribute counterfeit and illicit performance-enhancing drugs, steroids, and stimulants. Forensic analysis confirmed that some of these products contained prohibited substances, including a “fat burner” laced with Dimethylphenethylamine, an isomer of methamphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth or Tik).

Authorities seized a substantial quantity of counterfeit and illicit drugs, steroids, scheduled medicine, stimulants, and electronic devices during the operation.

As investigations continue, the suspects are expected to appear before a magistrate’s court later this week.