Reynella East man arrested after cops uncover suburban drug bunker

A 48-year-old Reynella East man is facing serious charges after police allegedly discovered an illegal drug operation at his home.

A 48-year-old man is facing serious charges after police allegedly found an illicit drug laboratory inside his Reynella East home.

Serious and Organised Crime Branch detectives searched the Reynella East property on Wednesday, and allegedly found a clandestine laboratory in a bunker.

SA Police said officers found around 1 kgs of a substance suspected to be methamphetamine along with other drugs such as opiate Alprazolam and cannabis.

They also allegedly found prescribed equipment used for the manufacture of methamphetamine, hydroponic light shades, globes, a pill encapsulater and empty pills casings.

A man will face court after police uncovered a clandestine laboratory in a bunker at his Reynella East home on Wednesday 10 May. Picture: SA Police

Police said it took Serious and Organised Crime Branch detectives two days to dismantle the laboratory.

The resident was charged with trafficking in a controlled drug, possessing prescribed equipment and possessing cannabis.

Detective Denise Gray said, “the seriousness of the situation cannot be over-estimated.”

A man will face court after police uncovered a clandestine laboratory in a bunker at his Reynella East home on Wednesday 10 May.

A man will face court after police uncovered a clandestine laboratory in a bunker at his Reynella East home on Wednesday 10 May.

“The danger in manufacturing illicit drugs using volatile and flammable ingredients in a confined space creates a highly dangerous situation,” Mr Gray said.

“This can include the release of toxic gases and explosions which can result in injury or death to the offenders and other in surrounding premises.”

The man was bailed to appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on June 30.

Anyone with information on the manufacture, sale or supply of illicit drugs is being urged to report it anonymously to police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.