Two men charged in alleged Shell Cove peptide syndicate raid

NSW Police have charged two men following an investigation into an alleged illicit peptide syndicate operating out of Shell Cove. The investigation, conducted by the Organised Crime Squad under Strike Force Antree, began in July 2026 with assistance from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

On July 24, detectives executed a warrant at a Shell Cove location, where they allegedly uncovered a clandestine manufacturing facility containing large quantities of restricted substances.

A 39-year-old man was arrested in August and charged with four counts of manufacturing goods for use in humans resulting in harm or injury. A second man, identified as 37-year-old former Illawarra Dragons player Trent Merrin, was arrested on November 3. Merrin faces charges of participating in a criminal group and five counts of manufacturing goods for use in humans resulting in harm or injury. His lawyer stated he will be defending the charges.

Inquiries under Strike Force Antree are ongoing.