On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) successfully dismantled a drug syndicate operating in Pretoria that was involved in the online sale of steroids, stimulants, and other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). The operation led to the arrest of six suspects—three men and three women—across various locations in the city.
The suspects now face multiple charges for violating the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, the Medicines and Related Substances Act, and the Counterfeit Goods Act.
Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, SAPS national spokesperson, stated, “The takedown operation followed extensive investigations by the SAPS National Organised Crime Investigations (OCI) Narcotics Unit, with support from the Transnational Vehicle Crime Investigation (VCI) Unit, 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).”
According to Van Wyk, the suspects were operating an online platform to trade and distribute counterfeit and illicit performance-enhancing drugs, scheduled medicines, steroids, and stimulants. Investigations, which included forensic analysis, revealed that some of the products contained prohibited substances. Notably, one item marketed as a "fat burner" was found to contain Dimethylphenethylamine, an isomer of methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth or Tik.
During the arrests, law enforcement seized a significant quantity of counterfeit and illicit drugs, including steroids and stimulants, along with various electronic devices used in the operation.
The suspects are expected to appear in court later this week as investigations continue.
Photos: Supplied by SAPS
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