Two men, aged 44 and 73, have been arrested following a National Crime Agency (NCA) raid on a suspected ketamine lab located in Barnston Way, Hutton, Essex. The operation took place on Friday afternoon at a rented property believed to be used exclusively for drug production.
Authorities uncovered between 15 and 20 kilos of ketamine along with laboratory equipment used to manufacture the Class B drug. The raid involved specialist search teams from Essex Police, who assisted in dismantling the lab setup over the weekend.
The 73-year-old man has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while the 44-year-old remains in custody as the investigation continues.
NCA Regional Head of Investigation Jacque Beer commented: “We suspect the flat was rented solely as a drugs factory capable of producing large quantities of ketamine. With Essex Police and support from the fire service and ambulance crews, we dismantled the lab and safely removed all equipment. We thank everyone involved and want to reassure the public that a full investigation is underway. We’re committed to tackling the drug trade, which harms communities and fuels further crime.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
