During a raid on a home on Arkle Street in Prahran on Friday, police uncovered a concealed stash of drugs and weapons hidden behind a fake bookshelf.
In court, it’s expected to be alleged that the 43-year-old man distributed a drug menu to patrons at nightclubs and bars on the nearby Chapel Street, detailing various substances along with their weights and prices.
Orders were reportedly placed through an encrypted messaging app, with drugs either collected from the alleged dealer’s residence and delivered directly to venues on the strip or delivered to purchasers via rideshare services.
It is not suggested that rideshare drivers were aware of what they were transporting., police said.
Just after 5am on July 4 detectives raided the man’s home, where they discovered a remote-controlled bookshelf.
Behind the shelf, a selection of illict drugs and prohibited weapons were found, including almost $11,000 worth of cocaine, $6000 worth of MDMA, $10,000 worth of 1,4-Butanediol and methamphetamine with an estimated street value of more than $16,000.
Other drugs, steroids and presciption medications were also seized, as well as an imitation Glock handgun, a set of knuckle dusters, two daggers, a sling shot, an axe, an extendable baton, fireworks and electronic devices.
The Prahran man was arrested at the scene and charged with 30 offences, including drug trafficking and possession, committing an offence whilst on bail and possessing prohibited weapons.
He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 5, where he was remanded in custody.
He is expected to reappear in court on July 15.
A 33-year-old woman from South Melbourne who was also arrested at the property was issued a caution for possessing cocaine.
