By Abbey Cannan
A large amount of cash, drugs and a pistol was found inside a Ford Ranger in Noosaville by police during a routine traffic interception.
Noosa Heads police were conducting patrols of the Villa Noosa hotel carpark in Mary Street when their attention was drawn to the Ford.
Police spoke to the driver and became suspicious of their activity giving cause to search the car.
During the search police spotted an unusual amount of cash along with a magnetised hidden lock box hidden underneath the Ranger.
Within the lock box, police allegedly found in excess of 400 grams of methylamphetamine, over 100 grams of MDMA, digital scales and other drug related paraphernalia.
The car was seized and towed to the Noosa Police Station where a more thorough forensic examination later took place.
During the examination a hidden compartment was found behind the glove box of the vehicle. Within that compartment police allegedly found an additional 28 grams of heroin, 29 grams of amphetamine, 25 ecstasy tablets and 87 Suboxone packets.
Investigators also spotted a black canvas holster containing a loaded .22 calibre semi-automatic pistol.
All items have been sent for further forensic testing with the firearm currently being examined at the Police Ballistics Unit.
Detectives from the Drug Enforcement Taskforce are investigating three men for an array of drug and firearm offences, with the matters currently proceeding through the Maroochydore Magistrates Court.
Thang Huy Nguyen, 34 years of Redbank Plains has been charged with a total of thirteen charges including possession of dangerous drugs exceeding Schedule 1, possess things used in the commission of a crime, possess property suspects of being proceeds of an offence, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Geoffrey Mark Eagle, 45 years of Yarrabilba has been charged with seven charges including possession of dangerous drugs exceeding Schedule 1, possess things used in the commission of a crime and unlawful possession of a firearm. Police are actively searching for a third male wanted for questioning in relation to the matter.
