Customs Seizes $5M In Steroids In Sydney

March 15, 2007

About 80 kilograms of steroids worth more than $5 million have been seized in Sydney in what Customs says is one of the biggest busts of its kind.

The performance and image enhancing drugs were first detected when customs officers at the Sydney Container Examination Facility examined a consignment of 24 cardboard drums from China on March 3.

The 24 drums contained about 40kg of white powder which allegedly tested positive for testosterone and nandrolene.

Both are considered performance and image enhancing drugs and cannot be imported without a permit from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

As a result of the detection, Customs and NSW Police officers earlier this week executed search and seizure warrants on five properties in the Rockdale, Ramsgate and Double Bay areas of Sydney.

A further 40kg of white powder was seized and a preliminary field test was positive for steroids, Customs said in a statement.

Australian Customs Service acting national manager Doug Nicoll said this was one of the biggest steroid seizures customs had ever made.

"The steroids seized have an estimated street value of in excess of $5 million," Mr Nicoll said.

"Customs continues to be vigilant in detecting and seizing performance and image enhancing drugs."

While investigations into the importation are continuing, several men have been questioned, Customs said.

The maximum penalty for importing performance and image enhancing drugs is a fine of $110,000 and/or five years imprisonment.