Illegal cannabis extraction lab discovered during West Kelowna wildfire evacuations

While evacuating homes as the Mt. Law wildfire threatened this past weekend, a conservation officer stumbled on an alleged drug lab.

“This was an all hands on deck situation, and a B.C. conservation officer was assisting us in evacuating people in the area of Mackinnon Road,” West Kelowna RCMP Staff Sgt. Duncan Dixon said in a media release. “In the process of the evacuation, this officer reported seeing indications of a drug lab at one of the residences.”

An investigation was immediately launched by RCMP with the assistance of the E Division Clandestine Lab Enforcement and Response Team. They executed a warrant on the property on Aug. 24.

READ MORE: Mt. Law fire closes part of Highway 97C

“As a result of this search, evidence consistent with an alleged cannabis drug extraction lab was located and seized from the property,” Dixon said.

“Illegal operations such as this pose a potential safety threat to the community, and we are grateful for the keen eye of our partner with BC Conservation Service.”

No charges have been laid but the investigation is still ongoing.

If you have information regarding a suspected drug lab call West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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