Thieves steal chemical used in manufacture of P

File photo / NZ Herald

Thieves stole a key chemical used in the manufacture of methamphetamine from a Mt Maunganui chemical yard last night.

The offenders were disturbed by staff at the chemical yard about 11.15pm, Detective Matt Valentine of Mt Maunganui police said.

They made off with a large quantity of hypophosphorous acid -- a key compound in the commercial manufacture of methamphetamine.

Mr Valentine said some acid was spilled and it was possible the offenders had chemical burns as a result.

Officers had obtained closed circuit television footage from the facility and were conducting a scene examination.

Police have appealed to the public for any information to help identify the people involved in the burglary.

They would like to hear from people travelling via the Harbour Bridge and Totara St in Mt Maunganui between 10pm and midnight yesterday.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who was aware of, or had suspicions about, people who had been in contact with such chemicals.

Anyone with information could call police on 07 577 4300 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.