STEROIDS have been found in a police raid on Sydney's Garden Island naval base.
After revelations in The Australian today, the Department of Defence confirmed an intensive investigation is under way into what is believed to be a large drug trafficking ring operating at the high profile, inner-city base.
Defence said its investigative arm, Australian Defence Force Investigative Service, led the raid along with civilian police.
"It is too early in the investigation to confirm the nature of all of the substances seized to date, though it can be confirmed that steroids were found," Defence said in a statement.
"A range of substances and other items were seized and a number of defence personnel were tested for prohibited substance use.
"Investigations remain ongoing and it would be inappropriate for Defence to provide further comment until these investigations are completed."
The statement came as Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said the allegations of drug trafficking by sailors at the naval base are being taken very seriously.
Mr O'Connor said he could not comment further because of the investigation.
The Australian reported this morning that a group of sailors - possibly dozens - was suspected of operating a drug distribution network from the base in Sydney Harbour.
Backpackers visiting Sydney were among the drug ring's customers.
Mr O'Connor said the allegations were of concern.
"I am always concerned if there are allegations of drug dealing anywhere," he said.
"I understand that matter is under investigation, so it is being taken very seriously by defence.
"There are criminal sanctions for criminal acts and we would expect people to be treated accordingly and it wouldn't matter whether they were a civilian or a person from the military."
New South Wales Police are also investigating the allegations.
"Further comment would be inappropriate," a spokeswoman said.
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