“As a precaution, police staff were armed and cordons were put in place,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Anthony Darvill after a firearms incident led authorities to a suspected clandestine drug lab in Auckland’s Avondale on Saturday night.
Police received reports of a person allegedly carrying a firearm on St Jude St near the Avondale train station at about 5.50pm, prompting a large emergency response. The Police Eagle helicopter was dispatched to guide armed officers on the ground as cordons went up around the commercial property. Fire and Emergency NZ sent two fire trucks and a hazmat unit to assist, while Hato Hone St John deployed an ambulance, a rapid response unit, and a manager. Crews treated four patients for minor conditions at the scene.
Avondale Search Uncovers Suspected Clan Lab
During the search of the St Jude St address, officers discovered equipment linked to an alleged clandestine drug laboratory. A videographer at the scene saw three people sitting on a footpath under police guard wearing boiler suits. Police have not disclosed what specific drug they believe was being manufactured at the property.
Four individuals were arrested in connection with the makeshift laboratory: a 39-year-old woman, a 57-year-old man, a 43-year-old woman, and a 53-year-old woman. All four face charges of possessing equipment with intent and were scheduled to appear in the Auckland District Court on Monday. Authorities said that further charges have not been ruled out as the investigation continues.
Did You Know? NZ Herald reporting highlights that regional operations target methamphetamine production networks, though police have not yet confirmed the target substance in the Avondale case.
Police arrest man for aggravated robbery while maintaining presence
Officers arrested a 27-year-old man over an unrelated matter involving an alleged aggravated robbery with an offensive weapon. He was also due to appear in the Auckland District Court on Monday.
Darvill said that police will remain in the area while inquiries continue. The street remained cordoned off for several hours while emergency personnel managed the scene.
Questions about the St Jude St police response
What sparked the police response on St Jude St?
Officers responded just before 6pm on Saturday after receiving a report of a person allegedly in possession of a firearm near the Avondale train station.
Who was charged in connection with the drug laboratory?
Three women aged 39, 43, and 53, alongside a 57-year-old man, were charged with possessing equipment with intent.
What emergency services assisted at the Avondale property?
Fire and Emergency NZ sent two fire trucks and a hazmat unit, while Hato Hone St John provided an ambulance, a rapid response unit, and a manager to treat four patients with minor conditions.
Worth a look