Since the mid-1970s, synthetic drugs have been produced illegally in Europe, particularly in the Netherlands. The increasing demand for illegally produced synthetic drugs around the world is leading to the creation of ever larger and more efficient illegal production facilities, known as laboratories. A 2018 study by the police academy in Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, estimates that at least 600,000 kg of amphetamine is produced in the Netherlands every year.
The seizures in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany show that illegal laboratories have now developed into veritable "narcotics factories". The chemicals required for production are diverted from the legal trade.
The amount of environmentally harmful waste generated in the production of illegal drugs is enormous: for every kilogram of drug produced, there are 5-30 kg of environmentally harmful, toxic waste that can only be disposed of illegally. The actual amount of waste disposed of is likely to be considerably higher than the amount reported to the police. The annual production of amphetamine in the Netherlands alone generates 3,000 tons - 180,000 tons of waste. The discovery of canisters containing unknown chemical liquids is often not associated with the production of illegal drugs.
- The storage location is remote or unusual
- The containers are plastic canisters, plastic drums or gas cylinders, which may also be deposited as cargo in vehicles or trailers.
- Stickers or markings on the containers that provide information about the ingredients, manufacturer or supplier have been removed or obscured.
- The discarded substances are liquid to highly viscous and strongly colored (yellow to reddish brown).
- The substances are strongly acidic or alkaline.
Recommendations for action
- Caution: The substances can be highly toxic and corrosive! For your own protection, please do not touch anything.
- Illegal disposal of waste is a criminal offense punishable by up to 15 years imprisonment. If there are any indications of illegal disposal of drug waste, the police or fire department should be informed.
