On Sunday, March 9, 2025, a fierce fire broke out in an apartment on Burgemeester van Lennepweg in Heemstede. Later, a drug laboratory was discovered in one of the residences. Shortly thereafter, a 73-year-old resident of Heemstede was arrested. He is still in custody. On Monday, June 16, an initial public hearing will take place. The case will not be substantively addressed yet.
Risks
The production of synthetic drugs is not only prohibited, but it also carries significant risks. Acids and flammable solvents are used in production. The costs for evacuating a drug lab and cleaning up the waste are paid with our tax money. The production of synthetic drugs is often in the hands of serious criminals. Growers and lab workers are increasingly becoming victims of violent crimes and rip deals. But not only the perpetrators are in danger; you are too. Criminals do not shy away from violence, creating unsafe situations.
How do I recognize a drug lab and what should I do?
- Drug labs can be located anywhere: in commercial buildings, farm sheds, houses, garage boxes, or in apartment buildings.
- A strong smell of chemicals, such as solvents (acetone), is often present in a drug lab.
- To prevent the outside from smelling like this, gaps in unused windows and doors are often sealed, for example with spray foam.
- Extraction systems with carbon filters often vent air through the roof.
- There is often a lot of camera surveillance.
- Look for more signs at houdmisdaaduitjebuurt.nl
Keep crime out of your neighborhood
Reporting helps. If you suspect crime in your neighborhood, let us know by calling 0900 – 8844. Reporting can also be done anonymously via Meld Misdaad Anoniem, call 0800-7000. Or via the National Intelligence Team (088-6617734), a department trained in protecting tipsters and informants.
PL11002025051814