Suburban drug lab seized in Higgins

A large quantity of volatile chemicals was safely removed from a makeshift drug lab in Higgins this week.

Originally responding to reports of a burglary, police attended the Brazel Street residence around 2.50pm on Tuesday (27 October 2020) where they instead discovered a large amount of chemicals and related equipment 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) were able to attend 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.

Police seized more than 90 chemical items including recipes and an assortment of equipment related to the manufacture of controlled drugs. 

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.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au