Calera Police discovered a large-scale cocaine trafficking operation during a routine traffic stop for a missing license tag.
Quick Takes
- Calera Police arrested two Colombian nationals transporting 46 pounds of cocaine.
- The suspects faced charges after a traffic stop on Interstate 65 southbound.
- The cocaine valued up to $2 million was possibly the largest seizure in Shelby County’s history.
- Calera Police emphasized proactive policing through routine traffic stops.
Routine Stop Reveals Major Drug Operation
Calera, Alabama officers arrested two Colombian nationals during a traffic stop on Interstate 65. The stop, initiated for a missing tag light, unearthed 46 pounds of cocaine valued at approximately $2 million, marking possibly the largest drug seizure in Shelby County’s history. These individuals, Cristian Yesid Lugo Belran and Jhorman Zapata, faced charges for trafficking cocaine, and both suspects were in the country illegally, raising concerns about U.S. border security.
The Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force, working with Homeland Security Investigations, processed the seized drugs. Calera Police Chief David Hyche highlighted the arrests’ significance, emphasizing proactive policing’s role in preventing crime. According to Hyche, “We believe they’re from California and were on their way to Miami, (Florida),” indicating the suspects used less-monitored routes to avoid detection.
Broader Implications and Investigation
One of the suspects was wanted in Atlanta for drug trafficking and failure to appear. Authorities, including multiple agencies such as the United States Attorney’s Office, are actively investigating potential connections to drug cartels. Additionally, Calera Police collaborate with federal agencies on drug and immigration charges, with each suspect held on a $10 million bond.
“One of the two individuals had a pending narcotics trafficking case in Fulton County, Georgia, so we called our partners with the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force” – Hyche.
Shelby’s County District Attorney, Matt Casey, commended the police’s diligent efforts. This case underscores the importance of enforcement through routine duties and counters trends advocating reduced minor traffic stops.
Impact on Law Enforcement Strategies
Police Chief Hyche critiqued reductions in minor traffic stops, noting their unexpected efficacy in dismantling illicit activities. Highlighting increased drug availability compared to earlier in his career, he tied this to border security weaknesses, emphasizing law enforcement’s crucial role in curbing the narcotics trade. McLaughlin expressed gratitude, stating, “I just want to say, ‘Thank you’ for putting somebody on the task force,” appreciative of the collaborative enforcement efforts leading to these arrests.
This incident stands as a testament to the critical impact that routine stops can have when law enforcement pursues diligent and proactive policing strategies. It also invites ongoing discourse about national security and the pervasive narcotics trade, essential concerns warranting attention from both local and federal authorities.
Sources:
- Calera PD shares more details on arrest of ‘illegal’ immigrants transporting cocaine – Shelby County Reporter
- Alabama officer’s minor traffic stop leads to discovery of cocaine being trafficked by illegal aliens
