Man Faces Court on Steroid Smuggling Charges Following Raids Across Perth

A Customs investigation into the smuggling of performance and image enhancing drugs in Perth has led to the arrest of a 34-year-old man. Customs investigators also cautioned several others over the alleged plot to import more than 15,000 Dianabol tablets from Thailand.

The Ellenbrook man was arrested on Thursday 31 July and appeared before the Fremantle Magistrates Court yesterday (Monday) on one charge of importing prohibited goods under s233BAA of the Customs Act 1901. He was granted bail and will next appear in court on 15 September.

Investigations into the alleged import racket began in mid-July when a package described as tins of nuts was examined by Customs officers at the Perth International Mail Centre.

The six tins, from Thailand, were found to contain several thousand tablets each. Preliminary forensic testing has identified the tablets as Dianabol.

Dianabol is considered to be a performance and image enhancing drug and cannot be imported into Australia without a permit from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Customs National Manager Investigations, Richard Janeczko, said the current surge in this type of smuggling had led to a strong response by Customs.

“Last week we carried out nine search and seizure warrants at several residential properties and business premises across Perth.

“As a result of these warrants several people were questioned and one man was arrested and charged with import offenses.

“Stopping the smuggling of performance and image enhancing drugs at the border and investigating and prosecuting those involved continues to be a high priority for Customs,” Mr Janeczko said.

The maximum penalty for this offense is five years imprisonment and/or a $110,000 penalty.

Source: Australian Customs Service

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