An increase in crystal meth seizures and drug-related hospitalizations in the North has led to a warning from James Bay OPP.
The alert from police includes signs of a meth lab for people to look out for.
The warning applies to all of the communities in the detachment, which includes Cochrane, Hearst, Kapuskasing and Moosonee, where police say there have been recent seizures involving methamphetamines.
The seizures are happening from people involved in cases beyond drug trafficking investigations, such as impaired driving, break and enter, weapons offences and sexual assault, said Const. Kyler Brouwer.
"There will be further attempts by criminals to capitalize on vulnerable segments of our population in a time of crisis" said Staff Sgt. Dan Crowell, in a May 2 news release. "Rest assured that through our collective and persistent presence, engagement, and enforcement, we will not allow these criminal elements to set roots in our communities."
Signs of a meth lab shared by OPP are:
- Occupants appear unfriendly, secretive and avoid neighbour interactions.
- Occupants attend for short time periods and at odd hours.
- Garbage contains chemical containers, glassware or bags full of soil, or garbage is never put out at all.
- Numerous security cameras that may appear excessive.
- Chemical odours.
- Chemical dumping on or near premises (burn pits or dead spots on lawn).
- Odd items including equipment, glassware or chemical drums.
The dangers of a meth lab are:
- Fire or explosion
- Harmful fumes and chemical exposure
- Increased criminal activity
- Environmental damage and waste
If you spot the signs of a meth lab, police say to keep a safe distance, do not confront the occupants, can call OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
