Australian Customs and Border Protection Service – 40 kilogram seizure a mood killer

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) officers seized approximately 42.5 kilograms of the aphrodisiac Yohimbine in Queensland last week. Yohimbine is considered to be an aphrodisiac and is typically contained in body image products and supplements. ACBPS officers at Queensland Air Cargo examined the two parcels, destined for the same address, when they arrived from China on Sunday 20 April and Wednesday 23 April 2014.

During x-ray screening, officers noticed anomalies and on further examination discovered cardboard drums containing a brown powder. Initial testing of the powder in both concealments was positive for Rauwolfia Serpentina (Yohimbine). Yohimbine is prohibited under Regulation 5H of the Customs (Import Regulations) 1956 and requires a permit from the Department of Health to import. ACBPS National Manager Cargo Operations, Jagtej Singh, said these detections are a significant find for ACBPS.

“While it isn’t illegal to import these products, they will be seized by Customs and Border Protection if they are imported without a permit,” Mr Singh said.

“The maximum penalty that importers could face for importing these products without a permit is a fine of up to $170,000, and or up to five years in gaol.”

Investigations are ongoing.

http://newsroom.customs.gov.au/releases/acbps-40-kilogram-seizure-a-mood-killer