Expecting to arrive to the scene of a typical robbery, ACT Policing officers were surprised to walk into a Higgins home with an extensive makeshift drug lab comprising over 90 volatile chemicals last week.
Police attended the Brazel Street residence around 2.50pm on Tuesday 27 October where a large amount of chemicals and related equipment was discovered in a shed at the rear of the property.
In line with safety protocol, Police cleared and cordoned off the surrounding area before members from ACT Policing Clandestine Laboratory Team, AFP Forensics and ACT Government Analytical Laboratory (ACTGAL) attended the following day.
ACTGAL and AFP Forensics members assessed the chemicals and identified them to be controlled precursors used in the manufacture of methylamphetamine, amphetamine, MDA and MDMA.
In something reminiscent of a Breaking Bad set, Police seized more than 90 chemical items, recipes and equipment related to the manufacture of controlled drugs in the Higgins drug lab – it’s unknown whether yellow HAZMAT suits and respirator face masks were apprehended as part of the haul too.
Detective Sergeant David Fleming from the Drugs and Organised Crime team said Canberrans should be alert for the signs a residence may be housing a dangerous drug lab.
“Some of the items seized were found to be in a very hazardous state,” Detective Sergeant Fleming said.
“Clandestine drug laboratories use toxic chemicals that can be modified to make illicit drugs or explosives, making them extremely volatile and at risk of causing fires or explosions.
“If you see something suspicious such as covered windows, strong odours, burnt patches of grass, presence of chemical buckets or containers, large exhaust fans and unusual rubbish, call Crime Stoppers.”
More information on clandestine drug laboratories and what to look for can be ACT Policing website.
Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
