Two people have been charged following an extensive police investigation into a series of alleged break and enter offences targeting wineries and businesses in Pokolbin.
Over recent months, multiple property offences were reported across the Hunter Valley wine region, with bottles of alcohol, electronics, jewellery, crystals and gemstones allegedly stolen.
Officers from the Hunter Valley Police District launched an investigation under Operation Ferment, focusing on the incidents in the Pokolbin area.
About 2pm on Tuesday 10 March 2026, police executed a search warrant at a home on Michael Street in Cessnock. During the search, officers allegedly seized several items of interest, including crystals and five MDMA tablets.
A 32-year-old woman was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station where she was charged with six offences, including four counts of aggravated break and enter dwelling in company with intent to steal.
She was refused bail and appeared before court on Wednesday 11 March 2026, where she was formally refused bail. She is due to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Thursday 2 April 2026.
About 11am yesterday (Thursday 12 March 2026), police executed a second search warrant at a home on Fleming Street in Nulkaba. During that search, officers allegedly located approximately 4.48 grams of a crystal substance in clear resealable bags.
A 31-year-old man was arrested and taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with two counts of aggravated break and enter in company (value less than or equal to $60,000) and possess prohibited drug.
He appeared before Bail Division Court today (Friday 13 March 2026) and was granted conditional bail. He is scheduled to appear before Cessnock Local Court on Thursday 9 April 2026.
Police say inquiries under Operation Ferment are continuing.