Illegal steroid production found in Grójec county

14 August 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Police uncovered illegal steroid production in Grójec county, seizing products worth about 5 million zł. Read why this matters for expats.

Police in eastern Poland raided a rented flat and uncovered illegal steroid production that officials say supplied fake growth hormones and testosterone. Consequently, officers seized around 1,000 packages and 170 litres of liquids with an estimated black-market value near 5 million zł.

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Illegal steroid production uncovered in Grójec county

Investigators from the economic crime unit of the Lublin police led the operation. Moreover, officers from Radom and Grójec units joined the raid. In addition, a representative from the Polish Anti-Doping Agency, POLADA, helped identify substances. The suspect, a 31-year-old man from Piaseczno county, had rented the apartment used as a makeshift lab. However, police say the production took place in unhygienic, domestic conditions. Therefore, investigators worried about contamination and wrong dosages.

What the police found and the charges

Officers found counterfeit growth hormones, testosterone and dietary supplements. Furthermore, they secured components, active substances, packaging and labels. Consequently, police estimate a total black-market value of about 5 million zł. They also found nearly 50,000 zł in cash at the time of arrest. The prosecutor charged the suspect with illegally manufacturing medicines and distributing them. In addition, authorities charged him with possessing substances banned under the International Convention against Doping in Sport. The prosecutor also accused him of creating danger to many people’s health or life. As a result, the court set bail of 100,000 zł. The suspect faces up to eight years in prison.

Why this matters to expats and public safety

Counterfeit medicines pose a direct health risk. Moreover, steroids from unregulated sources can contain incorrect dosages or toxic contaminants. Therefore, users risk infections, hormonal imbalances and long-term organ damage. In addition, illegal supply chains often reach clients through online marketplaces and social networks. Consequently, expats should be cautious when buying any medication or supplement online. However, buying strong medicines without a prescription remains illegal in Poland. For context, many prescription drugs here require a valid prescription from a licensed physician and are dispensed under the National Health Fund rules (NFZ). Also, national identifiers such as PESEL help doctors and pharmacies track prescriptions. Meanwhile, ZUS refers to the social insurance institution, and a mandat means a small on-the-spot fine.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: Avoid buying medicines or performance enhancers from unofficial sellers. If you need treatment, see a licensed doctor or pharmacist. Keep prescriptions and receipts. Moreover, report suspicious sellers to local police or to POLADA if you suspect doping substances. For healthcare access, register with NFZ if eligible, or use private clinics. Remember that PESEL (national ID number) and ZUS (social insurance) matter for official medical records.

Consequently, authorities say this operation shows the ongoing demand for performance drugs. Furthermore, police continue to investigate the distribution network. Therefore, expats should remain vigilant and follow legal channels for medicines. In addition, contact your embassy if you need help navigating local healthcare rules.

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