Massive $17 Million Cocaine Bust on Florida Turnpike: DEA and State Troopers Halt Cross-Border Drug Pipeline

Drugs were being transported from the Mexican-Texas border into South Florida

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – A joint operation between the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) led to one of the largest drug seizures in recent state history earlier this month—uncovering more than 173 kilograms of cocaine hidden inside a semi-truck traveling on the Florida Turnpike.

Authorities say the cocaine, with an estimated street value of $17.3 million, was being transported from the Mexican-Texas border into South Florida when federal intelligence prompted troopers to intervene.

After receiving a tip from the DEA’s West Palm Beach office, FHP’s Criminal Interdiction Unit located the truck and conducted a lawful stop. During their inspection, troopers discovered a concealed trap compartment packed with duffel bags of cocaine.

The suspects—one of whom had previously been deported—were taken into custody and turned over to federal authorities for further investigation and prosecution.

Officials said the bust highlights the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks and the continued vigilance of law enforcement across Florida.

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida remains a national model for law and order,” said Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. “When we work together, we stop dangerous drugs before they ever reach our streets. Our message to traffickers is clear: do not bring your poison into our state.”

FHP Executive Director Dave Kerner praised the partnership between federal and state agencies, adding that the operation reflects improved coordination and enforcement capacity.

“With the southern border shut down, cartels can no longer simply walk across with guns, drugs, and human couriers,” Kerner said.

“This allows us to target their supply chains directly and strike at the heart of these criminal networks.”

According to FHP data, since 2019, state troopers have seized more than 14,000 kilograms of illegal narcotics, including nearly a metric ton of cocaine and over 23 kilograms of fentanyl—a synthetic opioid responsible for thousands of overdose deaths nationwide.

Officials say the Turnpike bust sends a clear message that Florida remains on the offensive against transnational drug trafficking and will continue to use every resource available to disrupt the flow of narcotics into the state.

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