Pinal County, AZ – A routine traffic stop in southern Arizona turned into a major drug bust this week when troopers discovered more than 40 pounds of cocaine hidden inside a vehicle along Interstate 10, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
Officials said a Southern Canine District Trooper assisted a Highway Patrol state trooper on a westbound I-10 stop near Milepost 200, close to Sunland Gin in Casa Grande. During the stop, troopers reportedly observed signs of criminal activity and conducted a consent search of the vehicle.
Investigators say the DPS K-9 unit detected the presence of narcotics, leading to the discovery of 40.5 pounds of cocaine concealed in a hidden compartment under the center console. Narcotics detectives later took over the investigation, which remains ongoing.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the driver or any arrest details related to the seizure.
The Arizona DPS shared photos of the confiscated drugs, showing tightly wrapped packages stacked on a scale and inside the vehicle. Officials say the case underscores continued interdiction efforts by the Southern Canine District to disrupt drug trafficking across the state.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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