Agents from the Consumption, Environment, and Doping Section of the UDEV of the General Judicial Police Headquarters have dismantled a network that manufactured and distributed anabolic steroid medications in a clandestine laboratory in the province of Alicante. The investigation, which lasted six months, led to the arrest of 122 of the 200 people involved.
During the inquiries, it was discovered that the leader of the group had a makeshift laboratory in his home, where he manufactured the illegal drugs. It is estimated that his monthly profits exceeded 15,000 euros. Although the situation might seem amusing, authorities warn that these products can be deadly.
The leader of the gang was already known to the police for previous operations and had avoided drawing attention to not be discovered. It was revealed that part of his profits were invested in cryptocurrencies.
Members of the group made hand deliveries only to trusted individuals and in very discreet locations to avoid police detection. The ringleader imported active ingredients by falsifying the packages as other products, without consuming what he produced.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 11 people for membership in a criminal group and against public health. The investigation continues, focusing on possible money laundering offenses. The dismantled network is just one of five uncovered since early 2024, indicating ongoing criminal activity in this area.
