Police raided a narcotics processing center hidden inside a smoke shop near the Ridgewood/Bushwick border in Brooklyn on Thursday morning, seizing large quantities of heroin and cocaine while arresting a man connected to the illegal operation.
Law enforcement sources said the 83rd Precinct executed a search warrant at 9:30 a.m. this morning inside the Gates Candy shop located at 1597 Gates Ave., off St. Nicholas Avenue, near Food Bazaar supermarket.
According to sources familiar with the investigation, police were tipped off by a Department of Finance inspector who visited the shop Wednesday night and noticed suspicious items indicative of a possible illegal drug operation.
What police found Thursday morning was an “old-school” supply business, as one law enforcement agent described, with large amounts of heroin and cocaine, packaging envelopes, scales and related paraphernalia located in a secret room hidden behind a hollow wall.
The approximate street value of the seized drugs is being calculated, but police sources said it is well over $100,000.
Police also took into custody an unidentified man believed to be connected to the operation. His identity was not disclosed, and charges have yet to be announced.
This is a developing story; check back later with further details.
