RCMP shuts down suspected fentanyl lab in Surrey as officers seize drugs and weapons

Federal RCMP officers say a synthetic drug lab operating in a Surrey neighbourhood has been dismantled following coordinated searches in Surrey and Richmond this fall. Investigators with the RCMP Federal Policing Pacific Region CLEAR Team carried out warrants on September 14, uncovering large quantities of suspected fentanyl along with a cache of weapons and precursor chemicals.

Police say the investigation began earlier in the summer and led officers to a property in the 12900 block of 54A Avenue in Surrey, where they located what they believe was an active fentanyl production site. Officers reported seizing about 14 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, more than 200 litres of GBL – a chemical used to produce GHB – as well as 13 firearms, six suppressors, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

A second warrant was executed at a townhouse in the 12300 block of McNeely Drive in Richmond, where officers found additional drugs and roughly 86 thousand dollars in cash. One person was taken into custody at that location and later released without charges as the federal policing investigation continues.

Police say the discovery is one of several recent actions targeting synthetic drug production across Metro Vancouver, an issue that continues to raise concerns for public safety in British Columbia. Authorities note that fentanyl production operations pose risks not only because of the toxic substances involved but also due to the presence of weapons and volatile chemicals often found at these sites.

In a statement, RCMP Inspector Jim Leonard said the work highlights ongoing efforts to reduce the supply of toxic drugs and disrupt organized crime groups operating in the region. The RCMP is also reminding residents to report unusual chemical odours, excessive waste materials, or other signs that may indicate clandestine lab activity.