Three men were arrested after police raided five properties as part of a year-long investigation into the manufacture and supply of drugs in the Hunter Valley.
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Police from Strike Force Raptor, the State Crime Command Gangs Squad and Central Hunter conducted the raids about 9.30am yesterday.
Officers executed search warrants at the Portland Street clubhouse of the Gladiators outlaw motorcycle club in Horseshoe Bend where they arrested one man, and properties at Largs, Rutherford, Dungog and Port Stephens.
At the same time, police raided the Gladiator clubhouse at Gunnedah.
The State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad formed Strike Force Meaney last year to investigate a Hunter Valley-based syndicate believed to be involved in the manufacture and supply of amphetamines.
At Horseshoe Bend, police said they had seized a number of items relevant to their investigation.
At a rural property at Largs, officers allegedly found 360 grams of a crystal-like substance believed to be methylamphetamine, an unlicensed pistol and magazines, $17,000 and a truck trailer believed to have been stolen.
Police allegedly found small amounts of ice and cannabis at a house at Rutherford, while at a property in Dungog they allegedly found a replica pistol and ammunition.
At a farm near Port Stephens, police allegedly found a kilogram of base amphetamine, two ounces of mthylamphetamine, two shortened pump-action shotguns, $20,000 and a number of items believed to have been used in the manufacture of illicit drugs.
Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector John Zdrilic said the operation was part of ensuring the safety of the community.
“This is why we have specialised squads,” he said.
“We have specially trained officers, today was led by the gang squad who have specific skills for this kind of situation.”
Inspector Zdrilic said he expected significant drug and firearm charges to be laid.
“I’ve said it before, any unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated,” he said.
“If you engage in unlawful behaviour sooner or later we’re coming after you.
“We won’t tolerate it, it is unacceptable for people in the community to be in fear.”
Central Hunter Superintendent Garry O’Dell said a number of items had been named on the search warrant at Horseshoe Bend.
“This raid is part of an ongoing investigation,” he said.
“Further inquiries are being made.”
Earlier, police removed the Gladiator Boulevard sign that was installed on a telegraph pole beneath the official street sign.
