Three men have been charged with drug supply offences after police uncovered and dismantled a clandestine drug laboratory during raids across Taree.
Officers from the Manning/Great Lakes Police District Proactive Crime Team executed four search warrants at properties in Taree on Wednesday, 14 October, following a months-long investigation into alleged drug supply activities.
Police were assisted by the Northern Region Operations Support Group and Dog Unit.
During the searches, officers allegedly seized approximately $26,650 in cash, 20 grams of methamphetamine and 82 grams of a white rock-like substance.
A clandestine drug laboratory was also discovered, prompting specialist officers from the Drug and Firearms Squad’s Chemical Operations Team and Fire and Rescue NSW Hazmat to attend and safely process the scene.
Three men, aged 23, 38 and 76, were arrested and taken to Taree Police Station.
The 23-year-old was charged with supplying a prohibited drug in a quantity greater than indictable but less than commercial, and possessing a prohibited drug.
The 38-year-old was charged with supplying a prohibited drug in a quantity greater than indictable but less than commercial, possessing a prohibited drug, recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime exceeding $5,000 and failing to comply with a digital evidence access order direction.
Both men were refused bail and were due to appear before Bail Division Court 1 on Thursday, 15 October.
The 76-year-old was charged with taking part in the supply of a prohibited drug in a quantity greater than small but not exceeding indictable, possessing a prohibited drug and recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime exceeding $5,000.
He was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Taree Local Court on Tuesday, 17 November.
Police investigations are continuing.
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