Former NRL star Trent Merrin arrested over alleged links to an illegal peptide syndicate

Former NRL player Trent Merrin has been arrested over an alleged illegal peptide syndicate.

The 37-year-old father of three, who played for the St George Illawarra Dragons and the Penrith Panthers during his rugby league career, was charged on November 3.

WATCH THE ABOVE VIDEO: Former NRL star Trent Merrin charged over peptide lab

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It comes after NSW Police raided a home in Shell Cove in the Illawarra region, and allegedly uncovered a makeshift laboratory and large quantities of peptides at the property

Merrin was charged with “participate in a criminal group contribute criminal activity” and five counts of manufacturing goods for use in humans resulting in harm or injury.

He has been granted bail and will face a Wollongong court on November 24.

Former NRL star arrested over alleged links to an illegal peptide syndicate in 2026. Credit: AAP/GETTY

A 39-year-old man was also been charged in connection with the alleged syndicate in August, with his matter currently before the courts.

He was charged with four counts of manufacture goods for use in humans resulting in harm or injury.

Under the banner of Strike Force Antree, NSW Police said they were working with help from the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and investigations remain ongoing.

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