Police Minister Paul Toole’s brother Joshua arrested over drug bust in Newcastle, NSW

The brother of NSW Deputy Prime Minister Paul Toole has been arrested for his alleged involvement in a drug supply syndicate.

Joshua Toole, 38, was part of a group of four who were handcuffed Wednesday after a six-month investigation into the Drug and Firearms Squad’s supply of meth in the Central Coast and Hunter Valley regions.

Police Minister Mr Toole said on Wednesday evening he was “stunned” by the news of his brother’s arrest.

Joshua was arrested along with a 24-year-old woman at a vehicle stop in Killarney Vale around 9:00 am.

A short time later, investigators executed search warrants in Belmont North, Nords Wharf and Wadalba, allegedly locating and confiscating more than 2kg of methylamphetamine — with an estimated potential street value of $2 million.

They also allegedly found $220,000 in cash, a gel blaster firearm, electronic devices and other items relevant to the investigation.

It is clear that Joshua is currently being held at the Belmont Police Station and is expected to be charged later in the evening.

He will then spend the night in custody before appearing in court tomorrow.

A 43-year-old man was arrested during the Belmont North home search and taken to the Belmont Police Department.

After further investigation, a 42-year-old man was arrested at a workplace in Wyong around 10:30 a.m. and taken to the Wyong Police Station.

They are all expected to be charged.

Mr Toole was elected last year to replace John Barilaro as leader of the NSW Nationals.