LONOKE COUNTY, AR – In a stunning display of law enforcement efficiency, the Arkansas State Police’s Interstate Criminal Patrol (ICP) unit seized nearly one ton of marijuana in a series of high-stakes traffic stops on Interstate 40 over the last ten days. This major operation has sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting a significant route for drug trafficking.
Arkansas State Police Colonel Mike Hagar praised his team’s vigilance and precision. “ASP’s ICP team is strongly committed to ensuring the safety and security of the state’s highways, and their success in intercepting massive amounts of illegal drugs in less than two weeks is a testament to their dedication,” said Colonel Hagar. The series of busts began on April 25, when officers intercepted a car hauler carrying hidden caches of marijuana totaling 143 pounds, destined from Oklahoma City to Atlanta.
The efforts continued with a high-profile stop on April 29, when a routine traffic stop of a white Lincoln Aviator revealed 120 pounds of marijuana and a 9mm handgun. The occupants, hailing from Oklahoma, faced multiple charges, marking a significant blow to interstate drug operations.
Subsequent stops yielded similar results, with significant finds on April 30 and May 1, where 31 and 70 pounds of marijuana were discovered respectively. However, the most significant haul occurred early on May 2, when a Nissan van was found to contain 222 pounds of the illegal substance, underscoring the scale of the trafficking being tackled.
The operation culminated on May 3 with the interception of a Sprinter Van, where officers discovered 300 pounds of marijuana packaged and ready for distribution. This final bust not only emphasizes the persistence of drug trafficking efforts but also showcases the critical role of the ICP in intercepting these activities.
This relentless pursuit by the Arkansas State Police serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and their commitment to ensuring safety on the nation’s highways.
