S. AFRICAN DRUG ON WAY HERE: MOUNTIES

The RCMP and Canada Customs officers are on the lookout for a potent form
of speed -- called South African Brown -- which is being peddled by the
Hells Angels.

The Mounties say it's only a matter of time before the African-produced
methamphetamine hits Toronto.

Use of the drug surfaced last month after five Hells Angels leaders from
Arizona, New Mexico and Massachusetts were arrested in Tucson, Ariz., for
possessing and distributing the substance.

The president and vice-president of the club's South African chapter were
also arrested.

Distribution Across U.S.

Mike Johns of the United States attorney's office in Arizona said the drugs
were being imported to Flagstaff, Ariz. from South Africa, and then
distributed across the U.S. by the Hells Angels.

"This is the first case involving South African Brown that we are aware
off," Johns said. "This is something new."

Staff-Sgt. Rick Penney of the RCMP drug squad said the drug may be being
imported from Africa because of the specialized refining process required
for its manufacture.

"We are always vigilant," Penney said. "This group (the Angels) has the
distribution network and resources to get the drug here."

Police said the drug retails on the street for up to $50 a hit, which could
be in pill or powder form.