John Balatsos is facing five drug-related charges, including ongoing supply of an illicit substance, stemming from a police operation, codenamed Strike Force Nunki.

Balatsos, a mechanical engineer from Mt Warrigal who only recently started in a new job, was allegedly secretly recorded selling cocaine at popular North Wollongong bar and cafe Pepe’s on the Beach twice in less than 10 days.

Documents tendered to Wollongong Local Court last week said officers attached to the Wollongong drug unit set up the strike force in February, targeting the sale of drugs in the region.

Detectives used known undercover operatives to negotiate and purchase drugs, which were then passed on to police for testing.

It is alleged Balatsos was monitored selling $300 worth of cocaine to an undercover agent on February 24, and again on March 2. 

Both lots of cocaine were seized and tested. They were found to have a purity of about 55 per cent.

Police allege Balatsos was recorded selling a third batch of cocaine on March 21 to a known person on Cliff Road.

The father-of-four was arrested last Thursday and remanded in custody overnight to face court on Friday. 

Prosecutors opposed his release on bail, noting he had criminal associations which could include possible links to the Hells Angels through an upline supplier.

However, defence lawyer Stewart Holt asked Magistrate Cate Follent to place little weight on the alleged bikie association.

He said Balatsos had a limited criminal history, strong community ties and was not a flight risk.

“He will report daily to police if needed,” Mr Holt said.

However, Magistrate Follent refused to release Balatsos, saying the case against him appeared very strong.

“These offences before me are serious and they are prevalent in the community,” she said.

“A custodial sentence is likely if he is ultimately convicted.”

The case will return to court in June for mention.

Balatsos is the second man to be arrested by Strike Force Nunki detectives in a week: Bellambi soccer player Klaus Rauker is also behind bars amid allegations he was recorded supplying MDMA to undercover operatives on multiple occasions between March 17 and April 12.

Rauker was apprehended earlier last week and charged with seven drug supply offences.

His case has also been adjourned to June.