Police have charged two people following an investigation into a series of alleged break and enter offences targeting wineries and businesses in the Pokolbin area.
Hunter Valley Police District officers launched Operation Ferment after several break‑ins in recent months, where alcohol, electronics, jewellery, crystals and gemstones were allegedly stolen.
About 2pm on Tuesday 10 March 2026, police executed a search warrant at a home on Michael Street in Cessnock. Officers allegedly seized crystals, five MDMA tablets and other items of interest. A 32‑year‑old woman was arrested and later charged with six offences, including four counts of aggravated break and enter. She was refused bail and faced Bail Division Court on Wednesday 11 March, where bail was again refused. She is next due to appear at Cessnock Local Court on Thursday 2 April.
The following day, about 11am on Thursday 12 March, police searched a home on Fleming Street in Nulkaba. During the search, officers allegedly found 4.48 grams of a crystal substance in resealable bags. A 31‑year‑old man was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated break and enter, and possession of a prohibited drug. He faced Bail Division Court today, where he was granted conditional bail to appear at Cessnock Local Court on Thursday 9 April.
Police say inquiries into the series of incidents are ongoing under Operation Ferment
