Tate Ward, 29, was charged after police searched a vehicle he was driving under a firearms prohibition order previously served on him.

Police were conducting operations under the Gang Squad’s Strike Force Raptor at the time.

Central Hunter crime manager Detective Inspector George Radmore said officers from Strike Force Raptor and local detectives were working to “suppress recurring conflict” between the Finks and rival bikie club Nomads.

Police spotted a Suzuki Swift leaving a residence in Carlow Way at Ashtonfield at about 9pm on Saturday.

Mr Ward and another member of the club were in the vehicle at the time.

After pulling over and searching the vehicle, police alleged they found a .45 calibre self-loading pistol and 18 rounds of ammunition in the boot.

As a result of the search, police arrested both men and took them to Maitland Police Station.

Mr Ward was charged with possession of an unauthorised pistol, possession of ammunition without a licence, not keeping firearms safely, possession of an unregistered firearm and possession of a firearm when subject to a prohibition order.

The other club member in the car, Brent Oliver, of Largs, was charged with similar offences.

Police also searched the Carlow Way residence, where they allegedly seized a small amount of amphetamine.

Both men were refused bail in Newcastle Local Court on Sunday.

They will both appear in court again next month in Maitland.