Three Victorians Arrested, $2M Steroids and Peptides Seized in Joint ABF-TGA Operation

Three Victorians arrested following seizure of over $2 million worth of steroids and peptides by the ABF and TGA

Joint media release by the Australian Border Force and Therapeutic Goods Administration Published

17 April 2026

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The eight-month operation has led to the seizure of a vast quantity of PIEDs, illicit steroids and peptide products with an estimated street value in excess of $2 million.

The ABF’s investigation into the illicit importations commenced in August 2025, following the interception of 640 vials of PIEDs across numerous air cargo consignments. Inquiries revealed a further 76 similar consignments had allegedly been delivered to the same consignee since April 2025.

As part of the joint response, the TGA commenced an investigation into the suspected unlawful supply, manufacture and advertising of unregistered therapeutic goods and prescription only medicines, including injectable peptide products.

On Thursday 26 March 2026, ABF and TGA officers executed Commonwealth warrants at a commercial premises and residential address in Melbourne’s west. During the searches, both agencies seized a combined total of over 10,000 vials and 600 tablets, as well as cannabis seeds and several digital devices.

A 47-year-old Victorian man was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of importing Tier 1 Goods (PIEDs). He was granted bail at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday 30 March 2026 to next appear before the same court Monday 3 August 2026.

Following additional enquiries, ABF officers executed further search warrants at a location in Melbourne’s west on Tuesday 31 March 2026, seizing a quantity of PIEDs, cannabis, several mobile phones and electronic devices, six pepper sprays and one taser.

As a result, a 46-year-old man and 42-year-old woman were arrested and charged with two counts of importing Tier 1 Goods (PIEDs) and one count of importing Tier 1 Goods (PIEDs) respectively. They appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Wednesday 1 April 2026, where they were both granted bail to next appear at court on Monday 3 August 2026.

ABF Commander Graeme Campbell said the ABF’s interceptions of illicit substances at the border demonstrates the strength of its intelligence-led operations.

"This investigation highlights the value of strong partnerships between border, health and law enforcement agencies to disrupt serious criminal activity within the global supply chain," Commander Campbell said.

"PIEDs are known to have serious health risks and by preventing these illicit substances from reaching the streets, we’re ensuring the community’s best interests are protected.

"Our ABF officers continue to use all available tools at their disposal, including shared intelligence and cooperation with partners such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration, to ensure individuals are held to account and put before the courts."

Head of the TGA, Professor Anthony Lawler, said the outcome reinforced the importance of strong collaboration to protect public health.

"Unapproved steroids and peptide products present serious and unacceptable risks to consumers, particularly when they are injected and manufactured outside of regulated supply chains," Professor Lawler said.

"Working closely with enforcement agencies such as the Australian Border Force and Victoria Police allows us to disrupt unlawful activity early, prevent dangerous products from reaching the community, and hold those responsible to account."

Peptide products are regulated as therapeutic goods in Australia. Unapproved peptide products have not been assessed by the TGA for safety, quality or effectiveness. These products, particularly those that are injected, can carry significant safety risks, including contamination, infection or local tissue damage. For more information, see the TGA’s safety advisory on unapproved peptide products.

Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact Australia's border security is encouraged to report to Border Watch online.

Reports relating to suspected counterfeit therapeutic goods, questionable practices, illegal activity, or advertising that does not meet regulatory requirements, can be made directly to the TGA via the online portal.

By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.

Media contact - ABF: media@abf.gov.au

Media contact - TGA: news@health.gov.au

Topics
- Compliance and enforcement
- Import and export
- Safety monitoring and information
- Legislation

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