A multi-agency effort led to the seizure of more than 200 pounds of cocaine and nearly 2,000 pounds of marijuana in Rankin County.
The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics announced Monday night that it spearheaded an operation on Oct. 29 that included help from the Department of Public Safety Interdiction Team, Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, and Madison Police Department, which yielded the large seizure of illegal drugs. During the operation, law enforcement officers say they conducted a traffic stop involving an 18-wheeler traveling along Interstate 20 in Rankin County.
The driver, Yohannes Haile, and co-driver, Befikadu Belayneh, were arrested and charged with aggravated trafficking of cocaine and trafficking of marijuana.
“This significant seizure demonstrates the impact of strong partnerships between local and state law enforcement agencies,” DPS Commissioner Bo Luckey said. “By working together, we are able to disrupt the transportation of dangerous drugs and prevent these substances from reaching our streets and communities. I commend the dedication and professionalism of every officer and agency involved in this operation. Their efforts are making a meaningful difference in protecting the people of Mississippi.”
Both suspects were transported to the Rankin County Detention Center.