Iceland Joins Europol Crackdown on Performance Drugs

2026-03-03 - 09:16

This week, customs authorities in Iceland confiscated thousands of illegal performance-enhancing substances as part of a coordinated international operation led by Europol. The operation, involving authorities in 30 countries, resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at €33 million, as well as the prosecution of 3,354 individuals and investigations into 43 organised crime groups. What's the Story? 5,000 vials of illegal peptides seized in Iceland by Customs in cooperation with the Icelandic Medicines Agency Operation coordinated by Europol across 30 countries; €33 million in drugs seized and 3,354 individuals prosecuted Additional seizures in Iceland included nearly 11,000 tablets and three litres of SARMs sent from China by post Police car at night. Photo: Páll Stefánsson Social Media Sales As reported by RÚV, customs officials in Iceland worked in close cooperation with the Icelandic Medicines Agency. According to statements issued by the two authorities, around 5,000 vials of illegal peptides were seized in Iceland. The substances were sent from China by post and express delivery services. In total, Customs intercepted 34 different types of peptides. Many of the peptides have only undergone limited human testing, and their long-term health effects remain uncertain. The operation also led to the seizure of nearly 11,000 tablets and three litres of so-called SARMs, substances typically marketed for muscle building. Last week, local media reported that peptides were being bought and sold via social media platforms, including among teenagers. One individual sought assistance from a poison control centre due to adverse effects. Further coverage of drug seizures and public health concerns can be found in Iceland Review’s reporting on drug enforcement.