A suspected drug lab in Auckland’s Massey was set on fire today as authorities approached, police say.
Police arrived at the address on Colwill Road at about 5.30am to execute two search warrants, at two properties believed to be involved in manufacturing drugs.
Police were conducting inquiries on Colwill Rd, Massey when a fire broke out at a “property of interest” shortly before 5.30am. (Source: 1News)
It was supported by the armed offenders squad, a clan lab response team, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
Upon their arrival, police said one of the properties erupted in fire.
Four people, aged between 39 and 54, were then removed from the properties.
One person was transported to hospital in moderate condition after sustaining a dog bite and burns to their hands and feet.
A 54-year-old was then charged with arson, producing/manufacturing methamphetamine, injuring a police dog and resisting police.
A bedside hearing will be held at a later date, police said. It also confirmed the police dog did not sustain any long term effects from the incident.
Detective inspector Albie Alexander, who works in the national organised crime group, said police believe the house may have been deliberately set on fire.
Alexander said Fire and Emergency and PHF Science are assisting with detailed examinations of the properties, and have so far located early signs of drug manufacturing.
“Careful planning is undertaken before an operation of this nature and taps into expertise that helps minimise the risk to staff involved.
“There is still a lot of work to do, but we are satisfied with today’s result.”
