A Delta police investigation last week led to the discovery of a large fentanyl lab in Burnaby. Officers executed three search warrants in Burnaby, Surrey and Richmond last Thursday.
"During the search of the Burnaby location officers discovered a large clandestine lab used to produce what appears to be the drug fentanyl," said A/Sgt. Sarah Swallow. "This lab is believed to be one of the largest fentanyl labs seen to date in B.C. in terms of drug production."
Two Richmond men, Scott Pipping and Adam Summers, were arrested and are now facing several charges, including trafficking in a controlled substance and possession for the purposes of trafficking, as well as possession of a restricted/prohibited firearm and possession of a restricted/prohibited firearm without a licence.
They remain in police custody and will appear in court again tomorrow.
Swallow said the RCMP CLEAR team was on site to dismantle the operation with assistance from Burnaby RCMP and fire department.
Police have not said yet how much of the drug has been seized, however Swallow said the bust "puts a huge dent" in the production of the drug that has proved deadly.
In 2015 in Canada, there were 471 deaths directly linked to fentanyl and in the first two months of 2016, there have already been 132 fentanyl-related deaths.
"Without questions, this seizure will save lives," said Delta police Chief Neil Dubord. "Fentanyl is a deadly drug that is colourless and odourless and for which there is no test.
"This drug is impacting the lives of everyday people, including those who may use drugs recreationally without understanding its consequences." In early December, Delta police issued a warning about the drug after two people overdosed on fentanyl after using cocaine.
