Drug and Firearms Squad detectives have charged a woman for her alleged involvement in a $3 million drug manufacturing and supply syndicate in Port Stephens.
Strike Force Korpisalo was established in March 2026 by State Crime Command's Drug and Firearms Squad's Cannabis Chemical Diversion Team to investigate the illegal supply and misuse of chemicals and lab equipment for manufacturing prohibited drugs in the Port Stephens area.
On Thursday 25 June 2026, strike force detectives executed search warrants in Salamander Bay and Boat Harbour, where police seized 64kg of prohibited drugs with an estimated street value of $2.66 million.
Detectives also seized chemical containers and liquids, for what they alleged to have been a clandestine lab.
Two men have been charged and remain before the courts.
Following further extensive inquiries, about 10am yesterday (Friday 17 July 2026) strike force detectives arrested a 59-year-old woman in East Maitland.
A short time later, strike force detectives – with assistance from Raptor Squad – executed a search warrant at a home in Aberglassyn.
During the search, police allegedly seized 42g of methylamphetamine and $1750 in cash.
The 59-year-old woman was taken to Maitland Police Station where she was charged with take part manufacture prohibited drug greater than large commercial quantity, supply prohibited drug greater than indictable & less than commercial quantity and knowingly deal with proceeds of crime.
She was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Local Court 2 today (Saturday 18 July 2026).
Detectives will allege in court the woman was involved in sourcing the glassware and chemicals for the lab.
Anyone with information that may assist investigations into the supply of illicit drugs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
