A leaking toilet pipe has led to the discovery of $1.1 million in cash and 220 kilograms of ice, worth an estimated $44 million, in a unit in Sydney’s south-west last year.

Workers fixing a leaking toilet pipe at a Canterbury unit in July reported finding bags of cash and a crystal substance in an open cupboard.

Officers found a locked garage beneath the complex and seized 15 cardboard boxes containing almost 220 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine.

Other illicit drugs located during the search were MDMA (95 grams) and cocaine (35g), along with chemicals consistent with the manufacture of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GBH), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and ice.

Police have released images of the seized cash and illegal drugs, and CCTV footage of a man they believe can assist with their investigations.

The man is seen walking along Minter Street about 8.10pm on the day police initially attended the unit.

He is described as being of Asian appearance, about 170cm tall, of thin build, aged between 25-30, with short black hair.