Federal agents at O'Hare International Airport have intercepted a shipment containing more than 10,000 tablets and 2,100 vials of unapproved medications, human growth hormones and steroids smuggled from China, U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced.
The shipment, which was destined for Syracuse, N.Y., is an example of what authorities describe as a master carton smuggling scheme. It's a method in which a single large shipment conceals multiple smaller, unmanifested packages that are pre-labeled and ready to be sent through domestic parcel carriers to their intended recipients.
The package contained a variety of unapproved medications used to treat serious medical conditions, including cancer, thyroid disorders and breathing illnesses. Agents also seized human growth hormone vials, weight loss medications, erectile dysfunction treatments and steroids.
"The illegal importation of unsafe or unregulated prescription drugs like these are known to pose a significant risk to patients and consumers," said Michael Pfeiffer, Chicago Field Office's acting director of field operations. "Our CBP officers and agriculture specialists in Chicago consistently showcase their quality training and commitment to the CBP mission."
The shipment was seized by CBP's Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team and subsequently turned over to Homeland Security Investigations, a criminal investigative agency within the Department of Homeland Security.
CBP officers at ports of entry screen international travelers and cargo for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit goods, prohibited agriculture and other products that could harm the American public or U.S. businesses.
