Police have arrested five associates of the Nomads and Finks OMCGs after raids in the Hunter region this morning, NSW Police say.
Earlier this year, the State Crime Command’s Gangs Squad, in conjunction with Port Stephens, Central Hunter and Newcastle City Local Area Commands, established Strike Force Wilwendam to investigate organised crime activity in the State’s Hunter region and North Coast.
After ongoing investigations, Strike Force detectives executed five search warrants at properties in Gillieston Heights, Raymond Terrace, Rutherford and two homes in Telarah, from 8am today.
They were assisted by police from Port Stephens, Central Hunter and Newcastle City Local Area Commands, as well as specialist officers from the Tactical Operations Unit (TOU), Rescue Squad, Dog Unit, and Public Order and Riot Squad, during the operation.
While searching the properties police seized two firearms including a loaded sawn-off shot gun that was found in the bedroom of the Gilleston Heights property.
In addition, police seized a large amount of cash and ammunition, multiple tasers, as well as cannabis, methylamphetamine (‘ice’), steroids and MDMA.
All of the items seized will now undergo further forensic examination.
Two men, aged 25 and 27, were arrested during the operation and taken to Maitland Police Station.
A third man, aged 23, was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station.
A 31-year-old woman and 32-year-old woman were also arrested and taken to Maitland Police Station.
Investigations under Strike Force Wilwendam continue and charges are expected to be laid later today.
Anyone with information relating to OMCG activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
