An Arkansas State Police (ASP) trooper discovered more than 100 pounds of illegal drugs during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 this week.
Around 2 p.m. on May 19, the trooper pulled over a commercial tractor trailer traveling eastbound near mile marker 75.
Inside the cab of the truck, the trooper found four boxes containing 15 kilos (36 pounds) of fentanyl and 35 kilos (86 pounds) of cocaine.
The driver, Claude Bell, 56, of California, was arrested and now faces 21 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and 21 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. He is currently in custody with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Authorities say Bell was driving from Los Angeles to Memphis when the stop occurred.
ASP Col. Mike Hagar emphasized the significance of the bust, stating, “Removing over 36 pounds of fentanyl from our communities will save an untold number of lives. This seizure amounts to around 150,000 lethal doses taken off the streets.”
He added, “Seizures like this should serve as a warning to anyone transporting illicit narcotics along our interstates and highways. State Police will remain vigilant and committed to keeping the roads safe for law-abiding citizens.”
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Vikas Lalit is an experienced content writer at OTE News, covering business, economy, and international affairs. With a degree in Journalism, he combines analytical thinking with engaging storytelling to deliver well-researched updates. Vikas is passionate about uncovering underreported stories that impact readers.
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