More than two kilograms of cocaine has been seized from a drug lab in LaSalle.
Earlier this week, officers from the OPP and LaSalle Police, along with the Ontario Fire Marshal, carried out a search warrant at a residential property in the town, uncovering what is described as a functional clandestine synthetic drug lab processing cocaine. Police seized more than two kilograms of cocaine as well as chemicals associated to a cocaine extraction lab including acetone, isopropyl alcohol, hexane, muriatic acid, and hydrochloric acid.
Authorities say there is no concern to public safety as the commercial grade, flammable chemicals were removed by a hazardous waste management company.
At this point, no charges have been laid as the investigation continues.
Indicators of a synthetic drug lab include:
- Suspicious activity, secretive behavior and avoidance of neighbour interactions.
- Occupants attend for short time periods and at odd hours.
- Chemical odours.
- Garbage contains numerous chemical containers, glassware, bags full of soil or garbage are never put out.
- Location has excessive security.
- Evidence of chemical dumping grounds on or near premises.
- Obstructed or covered windows.
- Odd items being brought inside the location – equipment, glassware, chemical drums, etc.