Practical

Question 1

List the signs of a clan lab (Include interior and exterior)

Answer 1

Outside
• Chemical odours, coming from the building, rubbish or detached buildings. The odours can be sweet, bitter, ammonia or solvent smells.
• Exhaust fans running at odd times.
• Frequent visitors at odd hours.
• Windows blackened out or curtains always drawn.
• People coming outside only to smoke
• Occupants unfriendly, appear secretive about their activities, exhibit paranoid or odd behaviour.
• Expensive security and surveillance gear.
• Access denied to landlords, neighbours, other visitors.
• Rubbish containing a large amount of cold medication containers or packaging.
• Also bottles, plastic containers and boxes with labels removed.

Inside
• Laboratory glassware, equipment and documents.
• Containers with clear liquids in them with a chalky coloured solid on the bottom or similar.
• Containers with two layered liquids in them, one dark coloured layer and one clear or pale yellow layer.
• Used coffee filters containing either a white pasty or reddish brown substance.
• Baking dishes or similar containing white crystalline substance.
• The presence of hot plates near chemicals.

Question 2

What evidence to look for in a search warrant involving controlled deliveries

Answer 2

Search for evidence relating to the importation:
• track and trace receipts
• correspondence
• computers, faxes and cell phones
• emails
• contact lists / numbers
• packaging from previous importations
• money and financial records
• scales and packaging etc in relation to supply charges
• PO Box documentation
• travel documentation
• passports.

Question 3

List the Safety considerations you should make when a clan lab is discovered

Answer 3

• Leave the area immediately, your safety is paramount.
• Never touch, taste or smell any chemicals or equipment.
• Do not attempt to stop the chemical reaction, or turn any electrical devices such as lights or fans on or off. The simple act of turning on an electrical switch may cause an explosion.
• Do not shut off the water supply to the house or the chemical reaction.
• Do not smoke in or near a Clandestine Laboratory.
• Do not use tools, radios, cell phones, torches or devices that produce sparks or friction.
• Do not re-enter the premises.

Question 4

The ESR certificate is admissible evidence only if

Answer 4

• the defendant is served at least seven days (7 clear days) of the hearing, and provided with a copy of the analyst’s certificate
• the defendant does not, at least three days before the hearing, give written notice that the analyst be called
• the Court does not request the oral evidence of the analyst.