The discovery of a large haul of chemicals and equipment believed to have been used in the manufacturing of drugs in a rented property has led Hamilton Police to warn property owners to be vigilant least they too become victims of crime.
Detective Sergeant Ricky Thompson of the Hamilton Law Enforcement Team said the haul was discovered following a search of a Higgins Rd property last Monday.
"We went to that address on Tuesday searching for stolen property, while there we found materials consistent with the manufacturing of methamphetamine leading to the arrest of a man and woman on manufacturing of drugs charges.
"As a result of our enquiries into this matter our team identified a rented commercial property in Frankton as a location of interest. On searching this address we found a large amount of chemicals, estimated to be worth between $300-400,000, and equipment used to make P."
Mr Thompson said enquiries were still continuing and the couple were likely to face further charges.
"In this case the property owner was cooperative with Police and is as much a victim as anyone and likely to face some costs related to the cleaning up of his property.
Investigators ask property owners to be vigilant in terms of who has access to their properties and to make Police aware of any suspicious activity."
"Don't assume Police already know about a location or activity in your area you may have concerns about, if in doubt give us a shout either at to your nearest Police station or anonymously via the Crimestoppers crimeline, 0800 555 111."
Possible indicators of clandestine drug operations include:
• chemical odours
• high volumes of traffic (although distribution and sales may take place away from locations used for manufacturing).
• windows blacked out or curtains always drawn
• occupants unfriendly, appear secretive, exhibit paranoid or odd behaviour
• expensive or outlandish security
• denial of access to landlords, neighbours and other visitors
• rubbish containing large amounts of discarded medication containers, bottles/ plastic containers with labels removed, or horticultural supplies
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