A recent routine safety inspection by Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) enforcement officers in Hancock County resulted in a $700,000 cocaine seizure.
Officers stopped a 2000 Freightliner tractor and van trailer loaded with detergents and soap for a fuel, weight, safety, and paperwork inspection.
As part of the inspection, officials said MDOT personnel opened the trailer for verification of the load as described in shipping papers to ensure proper load securement and observed three bundles near the rear of the trailer: two wrapped in grey duct tape and one wrapped in clear plastic.
The bundles contained approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $700,000.
“I am very proud of our officers’ efforts to protect the public,” Tom King, commissioner of the Southern Transportation District, said. “Their dedicated work continues to make our neighborhoods and state safer by keeping drugs like these from reaching the streets.”
MDOT officials said the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department assisted with the preliminary investigation, noting the driver was arrested while the tractor and trailer were impounded pending the results of the investigation.
“As evidenced by this significant seizure, MDOT Enforcement Officers are aware illegal drugs, other contraband and even human trafficking victims are often transported in commercial vehicles,” King said. “We must continue to be vigilant for this type activity that will impact the safety of the public.”