WA Police has identified more than 100 improvised drug manufacturing sites (IDMS) so far this year. This is compared to a total of 133 IDMS detected in 2010.

The increase in detection can be attributed to the effective targeting of IDMS by WA Police, with significant assistance from the WA public. Particular efforts have been concentrated where young children are suspected to have been present.

A recent trend in relation to the improvised drug manufacturers isthat they are now crudely producing their own ammonia gas using common household items. Ammonia gas is extremely dangerous and can be fatal if inhaled.

Although the dangers are generally contained within the walls of the structure where it is being made, there is still a risk of exposure to toxic chemical fumes to the general community.

Members of the public are asked to look out for gas bottles, fuel or containers with improvised tubing and/or blue staining. Also, chemicals such as acids, solvents, toluene, sulphate of ammonia, caustic soda, lithium batteries, discarded piles of white residue, improvised containers and empty packets of cold and flu medications.

Assistant Commissioner (Specialist Crime) Nick Anticich said:  “In the lead up to the July school holidays, we ask that parents and their children be mindful of abandoned IDMS items found in parks or bushland.

“We also wish to remind the public that if suspected IDMS items are located, they should not touch any items, but should keep a safe distance away. In every instance please contact police on 131 444.”

Anyone who has information about the manufacture of illicit drugs should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.