8 Jan 2010

Toxic waste from meth lab found in bush

7:37 pm on 8 January 2010

The police say toxic waste from a methamphetamine lab found lying around bush and farmland in the Far North had the potential to seriously damage the environment.

They say the active lab was discovered during a police burglary and drugs operation in December at a house on a farm in Whangae, north of Kawakawa.

The farmer found chemicals, waste product and glassware in a subsequent search of surrounding bush.

Detective Sergeant Rhys Johnston says nine 20-litre drums containing chemicals and waste product, three cooking kits, a firearm and a stolen vehicle were recovered in the clean-up. It was clear, he says, that those responsible had been using the area for some time.

Mr Johnston says the police are grateful for the help of local farmers, and urges anyone who notices any suspicious activity linked with drugs to contact the police.