Two men charged after two alleged Sydney drug labs uncovered

The Raptor Squad has charged two men with drugs, weapon and fraud-related offences after two clandestine labs were allegedly uncovered during raids.

Two men have been charged after raids by the bikie-busting Raptor Squad uncovered two alleged clandestine drug labs in Sydney’s suburbs.

Investigations by Strike Force Shaula, established in June to look into a suspected large-scale fraud syndicate with links to drug manufacture and supply, led police to homes at Earlwood, Haberfield and Drummoyne on Friday morning, as well as a storage facility at Gladesville.

At Earlwood, officers allegedly found a drug laboratory in a concealed room, plus six litres of liquid methylamphetamine, cocaine, ammunition, mobile phones and electronic equipment.

Robert Medaglia, the 57-year-old occupant, was charged with supply prohibited drug – large commercial quantity, supply prohibited drug, possess prohibited drug and acquire ammunition subject to prohibition order.

The State Crime Command’s Drug and Firearms Squad Chemical Operations Unit attended to dismantle the alleged lab and collect the chemicals.

The Drummoyne raid was one of several coordinated searches. Picture: John Grainger

Two men were arrested after a series of searches across Sydney. Picture John Grainger

At Wolesley St, Drummoyne, Victor Daniel Pantaleo, 48, was arrested after methylamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA and more than $35,000 cash were allegedly found during a search.

He was charged with three counts of supply prohibited drug – indictable quantity, possess instructions for manufacture of prohibited drug, deal with property proceeds of crime and drive motor vehicle during disqualification period.

The Raptor Squad searched a home at Wolesley St, Drummoyne on Friday. Picture: John Grainger

At Haberfield and Gladesville, officers allegedly located more items used in the manufacture of prohibited drugs.

A final search at a Homebush premises later in the day allegedly uncovered a second clandestine laboratory in a rear shed and cocaine in the laundry area.

The Chemical Operations Unit attended again to dismantled the alleged lab.

Both men appeared at Parramatta Bail Court today. Medaglia did not apply for and was formally refused bail, to return to court on Wednesday. Pantaelo did not apply for and was formally refused bail, to return to court on October 12.

Investigations under Strike Force Shaula are ongoing.