Paarl, Western Cape – A 27-year-old suspect has been arrested following the discovery of an illegal steroid manufacturing laboratory in Paarl. The operation, carried out by the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) in collaboration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), uncovered large quantities of illicit substances along with specialised equipment used in production.
Authorities were first alerted to suspicious activity in January 2023 when a tip-off suggested that steroids were being couriered from Franschhoek to local recipients. Acting on this intelligence, law enforcement intercepted multiple parcels and sent their contents for laboratory testing. The results confirmed the presence of steroids, classified as Schedule 4 substances under South African law, which require strict regulation and medical oversight.
Following the positive test results, an in-depth investigation led to the identification of two suspects linked to the operation. A search and seizure warrant was subsequently authorised, allowing officers to raid the premises in Paarl.
During the operation, investigators discovered an array of equipment typically associated with large-scale drug manufacturing. These included pressing, sorting, and labelling machines, digital scales, industrial ovens, powdered substances, and other materials suspected to be used in steroid production. While the exact value of the confiscated substances is still being determined, authorities believe the operation was well-organised and aimed at mass distribution.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Paarl Magistrates’ Court in the coming days to face charges related to the illegal manufacturing and distribution of controlled substances. Under South African law, the unauthorised production or sale of steroids is a serious offence, often carrying severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, confirmed that additional arrests are imminent as the investigation progresses. “We have identified key individuals linked to this operation, and our team is actively pursuing further leads. This arrest is just the beginning of dismantling a larger network,” said Vukubi.
The use of illegal steroids has been a growing concern in South Africa, particularly in the fitness and bodybuilding industries. Experts warn that unregulated steroid use poses severe health risks, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and psychological effects such as aggression and depression. The sale of unregulated steroids also undermines legal pharmaceutical channels and creates an unmonitored drug market, often leading to products of questionable quality being distributed to unsuspecting users.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report suspicious pharmaceutical activities as part of efforts to curb the illegal trade of controlled substances. With further developments expected in this case, law enforcement is working to ensure those responsible are held accountable. The Hawks and SAHPRA have reiterated their commitment to tackling the illicit drug trade and protecting public health from the dangers associated with unregulated substances.
