The Eyes and Ears of Rural Alberta

RCMP Warn of Potential Increase in Anhydrous Ammonia Thefts

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The RCMP in Your Det, Alberta are watching for an increase in anhydrous ammonia, a type of fertilizer, thefts. The reason is not based in agriculture, but the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine.

Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that is gaining in popularity in Alberta. Police in northern Alberta have been dealing with a sharp increase in the illegal manufacturing and use of methamphetamine over the past six (6) years. There are a variety of methods in which to make crystal methamphetamine. One method, known as the "Birch" or "Nazi" method, uses anhydrous ammonia in the reaction process. Research from around the world shows that this methamphetamine recipe becomes very popular in agricultural areas due to the readily available supply of anhydrous ammonia . This trend results in significant increases in the theft of this fertilizer, from farms and agricultural supply businesses.

Awareness of the issue by all stakeholders can be the best form of prevention. The proper securing of this common fertilizer both on and off the farm can significantly reduce the potential of theft or inadvertent release of the chemical. Anyone involved in the sale or use of the anhydrous ammonia is encouraged to lock all valves and store application equipment in well lit or highly visible areas. Regular inspection of storage tanks and applicators will ensure that security measures have not been tampered with.

Your RCW Name Rural Crime Watch (RCW) is a valued partner in the prevention and can play an integral part in awareness and information gathering. At this point in time it is uncertain how much anhydrous ammonia is being diverted into the illicit production of methamphetamine. Simply put, the theft of anhydrous ammonia goes relatively unreported to police. Through RCW, the RCMP will be raising awareness to the potential of this issue and encouraging action in the following areas:

1. Better security of anhydrous ammonia storage and retail facilities.
2. Increase awareness and reporting from retailers, transport companies and farmers of suspicious activity, attempted or actual thefts of anhydrous ammonia.
3. Engagement of Rural Crime Watch associations and their members to assist Detachments in increasing awareness and increased monitoring of storage facilities.
4. Increased reporting to the National Crime Data Bank by departments on complaints received relating to anhydrous ammonia.

For further information, please contact the RCMP Drug Awareness Service at:

 or 

Calgary (403)230-6533

Edmonton (780)412-5461

Release prepared by:
Cpl. Al Fraser
Media Relations Unit
RCMP "K" Div

Approved by:
Sgt. Ian Sanderson
Drug Awareness Coordinator
RCMP "K" Div - Edmonton