Putnam County, IN – What began as a routine traffic stop on Interstate 70 quickly escalated into a major drug bust Tuesday morning, after authorities uncovered nearly 400 pounds of suspected cocaine inside a commercial truck.
According to the Indiana State Police, a criminal interdiction trooper pulled over a semi-truck near the 37-mile marker, close to Cloverdale, for speeding. During the stop, officers noticed several indicators that raised suspicion of possible criminal activity.
Police said the driver, identified as 27-year-old Harmandeep Singh from Bakersfield, California, agreed to a search of the vehicle. Inside the tractor-trailer, troopers reportedly discovered multiple duffle bags and boxes containing approximately 392 pounds (178 kilograms) of suspected cocaine.
Authorities estimate the street value of the seized drugs at around $9 million, making it one of the more significant highway seizures in the region in recent months.
Singh was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Putnam County Jail. He is currently being held on a $30,000 cash bond. Officials say he faces preliminary charges of dealing in a narcotic drug, classified as a Level 2 felony, and possession of a narcotic drug, a Level 3 felony.
Investigators noted that formal charges will be finalized by the Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office as the case moves forward.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing, and additional details may emerge in the coming days. As with all criminal cases, officials reminded the public that the charges are allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The traffic stop highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to monitor major interstate corridors like I-70, which are often used for cross-country transportation of illegal substances.
