Victoria's health watchdog has issued an urgent interim prohibition order against a second Melbourne man accused of posing as a medical professional and offering high-priced, unauthorized treatments to a patient suffering from a severe chronic illness.

A Pattern of Deception in Melbourne's Bayside

The Health Complaints Commissioner (HCC) handed down a 12-week ban to Maher "Michael" Aboudargham, 39, following a fast-tracked investigation. The regulatory move comes just a day after a similar ban was slapped on his co-accused, 32-year-old Assma "Sarah" Samadi. Both stand accused of operating an unlicensed medical practice in the Brighton East area, allegedly charging a vulnerable patient upwards of $20,000 for "botched" medical treatments since the start of this year.

According to investigators, the pair allegedly represented Ms. Samadi as a registered medical practitioner. The treatments administered to a patient with a long-term chronic illness reportedly included injections that the couple claimed would assist with the condition. However, authorities believe some of these treatments actually consisted of common ingredients like vitamins and protein powder, while others involved unlawfully supplied prescription medications.

Police Raids Uncover Stash of Illicit Substances

The regulatory ban follows a major Victoria Police operation on July 24, during which detectives raided properties in Brighton East and Caulfield North. The searches uncovered a significant stash of prescription-only medications, including testosterone, synthetic anabolic steroids, human growth hormones, and painkillers, alongside quantities of cocaine.

Both Aboudargham and Samadi were arrested and hit with a string of charges, including two counts of trafficking steroids, possession of a drug of dependence, possession of a schedule 4 poison, common law assault, and obtaining property by deception.

Watchdog Urges Public to Stay Safe

HCC Commissioner Bernice Redly urged Victorians to exercise extreme caution and always check the credentials of any healthcare provider they consult.

"Victorians have a right to expect that anyone offering health services is appropriately qualified, honest about their credentials, and provides care that is safe and lawful," Commissioner Redly said. "Where I believe there is a serious risk to the public, I will not hesitate to take action. This public warning and interim prohibition order have been issued to protect the health and safety of the Victorian community while our investigation is ongoing."

The watchdog is strongly advising members of the public to avoid seeking any health services from either Aboudargham or Samadi. The pair have been released on bail and are scheduled to appear in court this October as both the police and commissioner investigations continue.