KEY POINTS
- Â Police dismantled an online drug syndicate operating from East Lynne, Pretoria, selling illicit steroids, stimulants, and scheduled medicine.
- Investigators discovered that a ‘fat burner’ product contained dimethylphenethylamine, a dangerous substance related to methamphetamine.
- Several suspects were arrested across Pretoria as authorities continue efforts to trace the syndicate’s supply chain and warn the public about unregulated supplements.
In a significant victory against illicit drug distribution, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismantled an online drug syndicate operating from East Lynne in Pretoria.
The drug syndicate, which had been under investigation for months, was involved in the sale of illicit steroids, scheduled medicine, stimulants, and performance-enhancing drugs.
The operation was uncovered through a thorough forensic investigation, leading to multiple arrests across Pretoria.
According to an article published by Pretoria Rekord, the drug group marketed its illegal products online, presenting some of them as harmless weight-loss and fitness supplements.
However, SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk revealed that forensic tests exposed the true nature of these substances.
“Investigations that included a forensic analysis revealed that one of the products sold online as a ‘fat burner’ contained dimethylphenethylamine, an isomer of methamphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth or tik),” Van Wyk said.
This substance, known for its highly addictive and dangerous properties, was being deceptively marketed to unsuspecting consumers seeking fitness and weight-loss solutions.
Police Arrest Multiple Suspects in Widespread Operation
The operation culminated in the arrest of several suspects at different locations in Pretoria. Authorities believe that the syndicate had an extensive customer base, facilitated by online sales that allowed them to operate discreetly for an extended period.
Law enforcement officers are now working to trace the supply chain and identify any potential links to larger criminal networks.
They have also issued a warning to consumers about the dangers of purchasing unregulated supplements online, urging them to verify the legitimacy of sellers before making purchases.
This crackdown comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of illicit drugs in South Africa, particularly performance-enhancing substances and counterfeit pharmaceuticals.
The demand for such products, often driven by the fitness and bodybuilding industries, has led to a rise in underground markets exploiting unsuspecting buyers.
SAPS has reiterated its commitment to tackling drug-related crimes, emphasizing the need for public cooperation. “We urge the public to report any suspicious online sellers or individuals engaging in illegal drug sales. Together, we can put an end to these dangerous syndicates,” Van Wyk concluded.
Police dismantled an online drug syndicate operating from East Lynne, Pretoria, selling illicit steroids, stimulants, and scheduled medicine.
Investigators discovered that a ‘fat burner’ product contained dimethylphenethylamine, a dangerous substance related to methamphetamine.
Several suspects were arrested across Pretoria as authorities continue efforts to trace the syndicate’s supply chain and warn the public about unregulated supplements.
