newy.com.au – Two men have been charged and almost 64kg of prohibited and restricted drugs, with an estimated potential street value of $2.66 million, has been seized during a police operation in Port Stephens.
Drug and Firearms Squad detectives arrested the men, aged 34 and 24, at Salamander Bay about midday on Thursday after an investigation under Strike Force Korpisalo. Police said a search of a nearby vehicle uncovered chemical containers and liquids alleged to have been used in the operation.
The strike force was established in March by State Crime Command’s Drug and Firearms Squad Cannabis Chemical Diversion Team to investigate the illegal supply and misuse of chemicals and lab equipment for manufacturing prohibited drugs in the Port Stephens area.
From 2pm on Thursday, strike force detectives, assisted by the Raptor Squad and Chemical Operations Team, executed crime scene warrants at two storage sheds in Salamander Bay and searched a property at Boat Harbour. Police seized 50kg of pseudoephedrine, 12.5kg of methylamphetamine, 1kg of cocaine, $15,000 cash, about 50 items believed to be used in drug manufacture, and electronic devices.
The men were taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station, where the 34-year-old was charged with manufacturing a prohibited drug greater than the large commercial quantity and dealing with property proceeds of crime greater than $100,000. The 24-year-old was charged with taking part in the manufacture of a prohibited drug greater than the large commercial quantity.
Both men were refused bail to appear at Bail Division Local Court 2 on Friday. Police have urged anyone with information that may assist investigations into the supply of illicit drugs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed confidentially.
