In February 2019, detectives from Newcastle City Police District established Strike Force Toocooya to investigate the supply of heroin in the Newcastle area.

Following inquiries by Strike Force detectives, about 1.30pm on Monday May 13, a 38-year-old man was stopped by police while he was driving a hire car on Llewelyn Street, Merewether.

A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a prohibited drug believed to be heroin, and cash.

Police arrested the man and he was taken to Newcastle Police Station.

A subsequent search warrant of two properties in Berner Street, Merewether, and Park Avenue, Kotara, allegedly uncovered $11,000 in cash, a range of prohibited weapons including knuckle dusters, ballistic vests, a replica Glock pistol, tasers, flick knives, batons and drug paraphernalia.

Police will also allege they found prohibited drugs including heroin, cocaine, MDMA and cannabis.

The 38-year-old man was charged with more than 300 offences, including ongoing drug supply as well as firearm and weapon offences.

He was refused bail at Newcastle Local Court on Tuesday, to reappear at the same court on Wednesday May 22.

Investigations under Strike Force Toocooya continue.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

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