A shocking Raptor Squad raid has uncovered what police allege was a full-scale cannabis operation — complete with snakes, lizards and even a crocodile — on the NSW Mid North Coast.
State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad charged a 39-year-old man after an investigation into alleged drug supply and firearms offences near Kempsey, which began in November 2025.
About 10am on Wednesday (4 February 2026), officers stopped a white Toyota Hilux in Kempsey and arrested the man. A short time later, detectives executed a search warrant at a property in Collombatti — and what they allegedly found stunned even seasoned officers.
Inside the home, police will allege they uncovered:
- A large hydroponic cannabis set-up
- A rifle concealed in the kitchen
- A makeshift zoo of native and exotic animals
Among the animals allegedly located were:
- A 1.3-metre saltwater crocodile
- 38 snakes, including a cobra
- 19 lizards
- 3 hedgehogs
- 28 dogs
- 9 cats
With the help of the RSPCA, Kempsey Shire Council, licensed reptile handlers and biodiversity regulators, all animals were safely removed and placed into care.
Police also allege they seized:
- 52 hydroponic cannabis plants
- 11 kilograms of cannabis leaf with an estimated street value of $85,000
- A shortened, unregistered firearm
The man was taken to Kempsey Police Station and charged with a string of serious offences, including:
- Commercial cannabis cultivation and supply
- Multiple counts of dealing in protected animals
- Firearms offences, including possession of a shortened and unregistered firearm
- Knowingly allowing premises to be used for drug supply
He was refused bail and appeared before Bail Division Local Court 1 today (Thursday 5 February 2026).
