Officers allegedly seized almost 24,000 cigarettes and 180 vapes after an investigation into drug supply in the Snowy Mountains region.
In June, NSW Police established Strike Force Snaith to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs in the Monaro district.
About 7.30am on Tuesday, police carried out three search warrants in Cooma, leading to five arrests.
They searched a business on Sharp Street and allegedly seized almost 24,000 cigarettes, more than 180 vapes, and about six kilograms of loose tobacco leaf.
Police estimate the items have a street value of more than $48,000.
A 28-year-old man was arrested and is set to face 13 charges, including dealing with proceeds to crime, and wholesale supply of substances for therapeutic use.
Another man, 29, was arrested at a showground and police seized cocaine. Shortly after, officers searched a home in Buchan Parade and found cocaine, ketamine, a large sum of cash and a replica military style firearm.
The 29-year-old is facing 12 charges including supplying prohibited drugs, possessing an unauthorised firearm and dealing in proceeds of crime. He has been refused bail and is set to return to Cooma Local Court in late September.
A 26-year-old man was arrested at a supermarket, before police searched another home in Namala Street and allegedly seized more drugs. The man is set to face drug supply charges in the local court in October.
A 19-year-old woman was arrested at a school in Baroona Avenue for allegedly supplying drugs. She is set to face court in September.
Another 29-year-old man was arrested at a licensed premises and is also set to be charged with supplying drugs when facing court in September.
Southern operations manager Detective Superintendent Tim Beattie said the operation will put a significant dent in the drug supply in the Monaro Police District
"This is a great result for the Cooma region and surrounds. We have charged five people who we will allege are involved in the ongoing supply of cocaine, cannabis and illegal tobacco in the area for several months," Detective Superintendent Beattie said.
"The community can be assured we are doing everything we can to charge those responsible and bring them before the courts. This is a warning that if you are involved in the alleged sale of prohibited drugs, you will be caught and brought before the courts."
