Police uncover alleged drug lab in Port Stephens with link to Bandidos

POLICE believe they have made significant inroads into the supply of the deadly drug methamphetamine on Port Stephens streets after uncovering an alleged clandestine drug lab in a suburban Nelson Bay street.

Specialist chemical operations unit police and hazardous materials fire crews spent almost two days at the Montevideo Parade house after Port Stephens detectives found the lab in the garage of the house about noon on Friday.

Police allegedly seized eight ‘‘eight balls’’ of methamphetamine, also known as ice, with an estimated street value of about $10,000.

They also seized 900ml of what has been described as ‘‘meth oil’’, which is believed to be able to make up to a kilogram of ice with a street value of between $70,000 and $110,000.

Detectives will allege the house had direct links with the Bandidos bikie gang and are keen to speak to the male occupant, a member of the gang.

A Ducati motorcycle with Bandidos badges was also seized from the house.

Police believe the man was living in the house with a woman who was spoken to and released without charge, and a five-month-old baby.

Cooking utensils and other drug paraphernalia, including cookbooks, were also seized.

‘‘This discovery should come as a warning to others,’’ Port Stephens local area commander Superintendent Craig Rae said.

‘‘This will have a direct impact on drug distribution across the Tomaree Peninsula’’.

Officers were forced to wear breathing apparatus and protective clothing during the search to guard against the chemicals that were found.

The search comes almost two months after police found what they believe was a drug lab at Bobs Farm that is allegedly linked to the Gladiators bikie gang.

A number of people are before the courts in relation to that operation.