Stallone says Sydney customs seizure a misunderstanding

SYDNEY, Feb 18 (Reuters) Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone, attending the premier of his new Rocky movie, said Australian customs' seizure of several items from his luggage at Sydney Airport on Friday night was a misunderstanding.

Customs officers are investigating the prohibited items, which were confiscated during a routine luggage check. Stallone was detained for nearly two hours late Friday night when x-rays showed suspicious items.

''Customs can confirm Mr Stallone arrived at Sydney airport on Friday evening,'' said Richard Janeczko yesterday, national manager of investigations for Australian Customs.

''His party was subject to normal customs and quarantine processes. During an X-ray of the group's baggage, several prohibited items were located. The items are being held by customs,'' Janeczko said.

''Mr Stallone's party was fully co-operative with customs and was allowed to leave the airport after a short delay. Customs nvestigations are continuing and accordingly we can't say any more at this time,'' Janeczko said.

Customs has yet to confirm what the seized items are.

Appearing at the premiere of his new film, Rocky Balboa, Stallone told reporters Customs was just doing their job and it was a simple misunderstanding.

REUTERS PB PM0836