RCMP dismantle major fentanyl drug lab in Surrey

A federal policing unit of the RCMP has dismantled a major drug lab in Surrey and seized guns, ammunition and a large quantity of suspected fentanyl.

The Pacific region clandestine laboratory enforcement and response team, known as CLEAR, took down the operation after searches of properties in Surrey and Richmond in September.

The Sept. 14 searches led to the seizure of 14 kilograms of fentanyl, 13 guns — eight handguns and five long rifles — six firearm suppressors, ammo and four stun guns from the Surrey property. Also found at the Surrey lab was 206 litres of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), a chemical precursor.

In Richmond, police seized more drugs and about $86,000 in cash.

The investigation was launched in the summer and led officers to a suspicious property in the 12900-block of 54A Avenue in Surrey. Police also searched a townhouse in the 12300-block of McNeely Drive in Richmond.

One person was arrested at the Richmond site and has been released without charges while the investigation continues.

“This investigation clearly demonstrates the RCMP’s ongoing commitment to protecting Canadians by keeping toxic drugs out of our communities, ensuring our streets remain safe and dismantling organized crime groups,” said Insp. Jim Leonard, the officer in charge of integrated border enforcement and the CLEAR team.

Investigators urge the public to look for possible signs of a clandestine lab, which requires a large amount of lab equipment and chemicals.

Watch for disposal of abnormal amounts of materials in dumpsters, bins or waste areas. The chemicals used in drug labs also include strong solvents, which have an ammonia-like, pungent or sweet fragrance. If you suspect a lab, report it immediately to police.

The CLEAR team is a federal unit specializing in investigations into synthetic drug production — which often requires diverting chemical precursors and equipment from legitimate industries — and the people who operate the labs.

It works with other police agencies and provincial and federal partners across B.C. and the Yukon on drug investigations.

jruttle@postmedia.com

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