A large quantity of ammonium nitrate is unaccounted for in Ontario just weeks before the G8 and G20 summits.
The chemical fertilizer, which can be used to manufacture a bomb, was bought from Vineland Growers, a farm and garden supply store in Lincoln, Ont. on May 26 around 2 p.m.
The man who bought it identified himself as a regular customer and loaded the fertilizer onto a flatbed trailer, said Niagara Regional Police.
Staff later discovered that the man was not a regular purchaser and police began investigating.
Police have not given any indication that the man is suspicious and said they have received a tip that he may be a local farmer.
He is described as about 50 to 60 years old, missing fingers on his right hand. He may be of European descent and walked with a slight limp.
He was pulling the flatbed with an older model maroon or red-coloured mini-van.
Constable Wendy Drummond, spokesperson for the Integrated Security Unit that will police the G20 summit, confirmed that the unit was aware of the missing fertilizer, but said the investigation would be handled by local police.
"Police departments share information," she said. "But it's Niagara Regional Police that are investigating it."
The sale of ammonium nitrate is regulated and overseen by the government. Just a few months ago, police believed two tons of the fertilizer had gone missing shortly before the Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver.
It later turned out that a counting error had mistakenly left the impression that the fertilizer was missing when it had actually never been stolen.
Anyone who can help police track down the missing fertilizer can call them at 905-688-4111 ext. 4208 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Adrian Morrow