TWEED detectives hope DNA evidence will help to convict a Goondiwindi man arrested over the robbery of a Murwillumbah credit union.

Adrian Gallegos, 42, was not required to enter a plea and was refused bail in Tweed Heads Local Court yesterday.

Police alleged items found at a Quarry Rd property in Murwillumbah, where the accused was arrested, were linked to the robbery of the Southern Cross Credit Union in late May.

The court heard that about 4.30pm on Monday, May 30, a man wearing a black beanie with eye holes cut into it, a white shirt and black pants entered the credit union and used a brick paver to keep the door ajar.

The man approached two tellers, threatened them with a replica firearm and demanded cash.

He then escaped along the Tweed River with more than $8000.

Acting on a search warrant, detectives searched the Quarry Rd address on Monday and found a replica antique pistol, later revealed to be a cigarette lighter, similar to the one used in the robbery.

They also found a black beanie with eye holes, a police radio scanner, small brick pavers and remnants of clothing that had been destroyed by fire.

Following the execution of the search warrant, a 26-year-old man was also charged with drug and firearm offences and will appear in Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday.

Police prosecutor Brett Gradisnik said DNA swabs taken at the crime scene and at the Murwillumbah property were being tested.

He said the DNA analysis could strengthen the prosecution’s case, which was largely based on circumstantial evidence.

Defence solicitor Helen Roach argued for Gallegos to be released on bail as he had five children in Goondiwindi.

The magistrate refused bail based on Gallegos’ history of failing to appear for court offences and the severity of the charges.

Gallegos was held in custody and will appear in Lismore District Court on August 16 via video link.

Police found a replica pistol, later revealed to be a cigarette lighter, similar to one used in the robbery.