Israeli Authorities Arrest Four Suspects Exporting Illegal Steroids to US Disguised as Cosmetics

A covert investigation lasting over a year uncovered a network allegedly exporting anabolic steroids to the United States while concealing them as cosmetic products. Four suspects were arrested in a joint operation by the Israeli Tax Authority and Ministry of Health. The investigation, which became public this week, revealed that between 2023 and 2025 the suspects shipped packages from various post offices across Israel to the US, falsely declaring them as cosmetics. In reality, these packages contained anabolic steroids and other drugs, some sent under fake names and addresses, with some returned to Israel after not being collected.

The suspects reportedly procured bottles, caps, chemicals, labels, and other equipment both domestically and abroad to manufacture the steroids in secret locations. Besides exporting, they allegedly sold these illegal products to gyms and bodybuilders within Israel. Authorities emphasized that anabolic steroids are dangerous substances banned for use and export, linked to severe health risks including heart, kidney, hormonal, fertility, and nervous system damage, as well as psychological effects.

Additionally, the suspects are accused of failing to report millions of shekels in income from 2023 to 2025, with some payments made via digital currencies. The investigation involved multiple enforcement units including the Central Customs House, Haifa Customs and VAT Investigations, the Diamond Unit, the Tax Authority Intelligence Unit, the Customs Drug K9 Unit, and the Ministry of Health's Enforcement and Supervision Division. The suspects’ detention was extended by the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court until Thursday, and the probe continues.