Drugs and weapons stashed behind a bookshelf led to the discovery of an alleged drugs-to-order menu service using unsuspecting rideshare drivers as couriers.
Police allege a 43-year-old man trafficked a "plethora of drugs" at Melbourne's popular Chapel Street nightlife district by sending out menus with illicit substances and took orders on an encrypted messaging app.
Investigators claim the drugs were taken directly to venues or picked up by unsuspecting rideshare drivers who delivered them to customers.
Many rideshare companies allow package delivery and police do not suggest drivers knew what they were allegedly delivering.
Drugs including cocaine and methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $43,000 were allegedly found behind a remote-controlled bookshelf during a police search of a Prahran home on July 4.
An axe, knuckle dusters with a spring-loaded knife and daggers were among weapons seized.
The man was charged with more than 30 offences and remanded in custody until his next court appearance on July 15.
His charges include include trafficking and possessing illicit drugs, possessing a prohibited weapon and knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime.
A 33-year-old woman was also arrested at the property and issued with a caution for cocaine possession.
Victoria Police said officers were highly skilled at finding inconsistencies in properties where drugs or weapons could be hidden.
"If you think you can outsmart us, you're wrong," Acting Detective Sergeant Scott Ishac said.
"Trafficking drugs carries a maximum penalty of 25 years' behind bars.
"The glitz and glam of a lifestyle funded by drugs will never last long, and offenders will always end up far worse off than before."
