Major Drug Laboratory Dismantled in Brandenburg; Two Suspects Face Detention

Authorities in Brandenburg have uncovered a large-scale illicit drug laboratory in the Havelland region, marking one of the most significant discoveries of its kind in recent years. The operation, which involved the collaboration of police and customs investigators, revealed extensive quantities of both finished narcotics and precursor chemicals used in drug production.

Law enforcement officials executed a coordinated raid on a rented warehouse within an industrial zone in Nauen. The search led to the seizure of approximately 100 kilograms of manufactured drugs, along with more than 200,000 euros in cash. Two individuals, identified as a 50-year-old Ukrainian national and a 41-year-old Polish national, were detained during the operation. Prosecutors have requested that both suspects be placed in pre-trial detention, pending a judicial decision regarding their custody.

The investigation revealed that the facility was equipped to manufacture significant quantities of synthetic drugs. Authorities noted the presence of vast amounts of chemical substances and materials essential for the synthesis of controlled substances. The sheer scale of the chemical inventory, including several tons of waste chemicals generated from drug production processes, underscores the industrial-level capacity of the laboratory.

According to the customs investigation agency for Berlin and Brandenburg, the substances discovered included the synthetic drugs 3-CMC and 4-CMC, both classified as amphetamine-type stimulants. These compounds are commonly associated with recreational use in party settings. Initial assessments indicate that the laboratory did not produce crystal methamphetamine, but large stocks of chemical precursors suggest the potential for output on a highly organized and commercial scale.

Processing and analyzing the chemicals and drugs found at the scene is expected to take several days. Forensic teams must carefully handle and document the hazardous materials to ensure the safety of investigators and to preserve evidence for potential prosecution. Authorities are proceeding with caution due to the risks posed by the volumes and nature of the chemicals present.

The arrested suspects are accused of jointly engaging in the unauthorized commercial trafficking of significant quantities of narcotics as part of an organized group. Under German law, such offenses carry a minimum penalty of five years' imprisonment.

The operation involved around 150 officers from various branches, including the federal police and customs enforcement. The investigation was the result of extensive surveillance and intelligence efforts spanning several months. The public prosecutor's office in Frankfurt (Oder) is overseeing the legal proceedings as the investigation continues.

Officials emphasized that the discovery represents an unprecedented event in the region, given both the scale of the operation and the quantities involved. The seized cash and drugs are now secured as evidence, and further analysis will determine the full extent of the laboratory's output and distribution network.

Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the intended distribution channels or broader criminal affiliations related to the case. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to track potential links to wider narcotics networks both within Germany and internationally.