(Photo supplied by ALERT)

By David Opinko

ALERT estimates $300M worth of drugs confiscated at Alberta “superlab”

Sep 1, 2021 | 11:05 AM

CALGARY, AB – ALERT is updating Albertans on a significant drug bust from earlier this summer.

On July 7, 2021, officers conducted 13 search warrants at homes and businesses in the Calgary and Edmonton areas, as well as what is being referred to as a “suspected fentanyl superlab” located at a rural residence near Aldersyde. Aldersyde is located just east of Okotoks.

READ MORE: “Fentanyl superlab” south of Calgary being dismantled

The list of substances seized includes:

• 13.6 kilograms of fentanyl
• 11.9 kilograms of the fentanyl late-stage precursors 4-ANPP
• 6.6 kilograms of synthetic opioids
• 9.9 kilograms of methamphetamine
• 50 litres of gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid
• 3.5 kilograms of buffing agents
• 7,600 kilograms of chemicals

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One kilogram of pure fentanyl is equal to about one million doses and a legal dose is considered to be two milligrams. It is believed that the superlab was capable of producing as much as 10 kilograms of fentanyl every week.

If sold on the street, ALERT says the value of the drugs seized is over $300 million.

In addition to drugs, officers also seized 18 handguns, one rifle, $25,000 in cash and jewelry, six vehicles, four motorcycles, three trailers, and a boat.

Justice Minister Kaycee Madu commented on operation Project Essence, which covered all aspects of fentanyl production from importation, accumulation and stockpiling of equipment and raw chemicals, production, and distribution.

“We appreciate the vital work ALERT does to keep our communities safe and improve the lives of Albertans. Through Project Essence, ALERT disrupted organized crime endeavours and prevented hundreds of millions of fentanyl doses from potentially entering our communities, and destroying the lives and futures of many Albertans.”

10 law enforcement agencies from numerous jurisdictions worked together as part of this investigation.

If you suspect drug or gang activity in your community, you can phone your local police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

A number of suspects have been identified and charges are pending.

More photos of the seized items can be found on ALERT’s website here.