RCMP executes multiple search warrants in connection with clandestine MDMA laboratory

OTTAWA, June 11, 2015 /CNW/ - Further to a previous news release on June 9, 2015, the RCMP Ottawa Detachment executed another series of search warrants in the National Capital Region, including two businesses, two residences, two storage facilities and two vehicles. 

RCMP - OPP Project dubbed "ONatural" started on information received regarding a suspicious transaction of precursors, in this case sassafras oil, used in the manufacturing of Methylenedioxy-Methamphetamine (MDMA) also known as ecstasy. The precursors were legally obtained by "Pebble Candles", a company in Cumberland Ontario, allegedly manufacturing candles.

William KING was identified as the director of Pebble Candles. As result of the search warrants, the RCMP seized 1500 kg of the sassafras oil.  Sassafras oil is a precursor for MDMA.  A clandestine laboratory, such as the one dismantled, could transform the oil into 4,200,000 tablets of MDMA (ecstasy).  Police seized an additional 1000 kgs of Helionix, a precursor for Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA). This quantity of Helionix has the potential yield of 2,650,000 MDA tablets (variation of ecstasy). These tablets have a street value of $20 each.

"Diversion of chemicals like these can be spotted by citizens and chemical industry partners. There are likely more clandestine labs out there, so help is needed by reporting to police when you see suspicious chemical transactions or activities. " says Supt. Guy Rook, Commander North East District, Ontario. The RCMP's Chemical Diversion Program can be contacted at ChemWatch Hotline: [phone]

William KING, 48, (Ottawa, Ontario) was arrested yesterday for Drug related offences. He made a brief court appearance at the Ottawa Courthouse located at 161 Elgin in Ottawa. His bail hearing is scheduled for Friday, June 12^th.

Jonathan CAYER, 34, (Gatineau, Quebec) appeared in court yesterday. His bail hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16^th. 

Cassian POPA, 38, (Montague, Ontario) is waiting for his bail hearing, no set date at this time.

High resolution photos are available on the RCMP in Ontario website.

The investigation is ongoing.

Related Links:

The evils of ecstasy (La menace d'ecstacy; French)

Website: RCMP in Ontario
Twitter: @RCMPONT
Facebook: RCMP.Ontario
YouTube: RCMPGRCPOLICE

SOURCE Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Sgt. Penny Hermann, RCMP 'O' Division Media Relations, Tel: [phone]