A joint operation between the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has resulted in the interception of approximately 173 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $17.3 million.
The seizure, which took place on the Florida Turnpike, is being hailed as another major victory in Florida’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking.
On October 5, 2025, the DEA’s West Palm Beach office provided critical intelligence to the FHP regarding a semi-truck suspected of transporting narcotics from the Mexican-Texas border into South Florida. Acting swiftly on the tip, the FHP’s Criminal Interdiction Unit (CIU) located the vehicle traveling southbound and conducted a lawful traffic stop for inspection.
During the inspection, troopers discovered a concealed trap door containing multiple duffle bags filled with the illegal substance. The individuals involved in the trafficking attempt, including one person previously deported from the United States, were immediately apprehended and transferred to federal custody for prosecution.
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State and Federal Leaders Commend Interagency Cooperation
Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins spoke of the state’s unwavering stance on law and order, stating the operation is a “powerful example” of Florida’s commitment to stopping dangerous drugs before they reach local communities.
“Our message to drug traffickers is clear: do not bring your poison into our state. We will find you, we will arrest you, and we will always stand on the front lines to protect Floridians from those who threaten our safety and our future,” said Collins.
The operation was also praised for its high level of cooperation between state and federal agencies. Executive Director Dave Kerner highlighted the strategic advantage of this teamwork in targeting the larger criminal networks.
“This operation demonstrates that… the teamwork and cooperation between federal and state law enforcement has never been better,” said Kerner. He added that a more secure border forces cartels to move large amounts of narcotics in a way that allows law enforcement to investigate the supply chain back to their point of origin, targeting the ultimate source of criminal operations.
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FHP’s Ongoing Success
This cocaine seizure adds to the FHP’s significant track record of drug interdiction. Since 2019, the Florida Highway Patrol has recovered over 14,000 kilograms of illegal narcotics, which includes:
- 925 kilograms of cocaine
- 23.5 kilograms of fentanyl
- 14 kilograms of heroin
- 9,600 kilograms of marijuana
- 19 kilograms of MDMA
Florida officials affirmed their commitment to decisive action and strong interagency cooperation to continue dismantling drug trafficking operations and ensuring that criminal enterprises have no safe haven in the Sunshine State.
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