POLICE ON THE LOOK OUT FOR CLANDESTINE DRUG LABS

Police are warning residents to be on the look out for crystal meth
labs after a chemical dump was located at the Flood Falls Road east of
Exit 165, last Thursday (Jan. 25).

The eight five-gallon buckets containing a bright orange liquid were
according to local police first spotted by a BC Forest Service patrol,
which noted the strong smell of solvents in the air.

The pails were dumped near the popular Flood Falls hiking
trail.

"A hazardous material disposal team attended the scene for the purpose
of testing and disposing of the chemical waste, says Hope's general
investigator, Kurt Bosnell. "Initial tests revealed the chemicals were
likely that of Acetone and Red Phosphorus, both precursors chemicals
in the manufacturing of methamphetamine."

"All (of the) chemicals were contained and there was no indication of
spillage or contamination."

It is believed that the chemicals had been dumped over 72 hours before
they were spotted by forestry investigators.

Local residents are being asked to keep an eye open for crystal meth
operations. "Strange chemical odours and hazardous waste containers
are common indicators of clandestine labs. If any of these materials
or odours are suspected or located please keep your distance and
contact the Hope RCMP immediately.

If anyone has any information on this chemical dump contact the Hope
RCMP Serious Crime Unit.