Lincoln, NB – Two Minnesota men were arrested on Thursday after deputies discovered over 100 pounds of methamphetamine in their vehicle during a traffic stop in north Lincoln, according to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office (LSO).
Traffic Stop Leads to Massive Drug Bust
The incident occurred near the North 27th Street exit on Interstate 80, when members of the sheriff’s criminal interdiction unit pulled over a pickup truck for following too closely, said Chief Deputy Ben Houchin.
Upon approaching the vehicle, deputies observed an open container of alcohol inside the truck. The occupants gave consent for a search, which revealed a staggering 117 pounds of methamphetamine hidden throughout the vehicle.
“If there was a void, there was methamphetamine packed in that car,” Houchin said, highlighting the sheer quantity discovered.
The suspects, 35-year-old Ever Abimael Cano Ruacho and 34-year-old Jimmie Collazo Jr., were immediately taken into custody on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance, as reported.
Largest Drug Bust Since 2012
Deputies described this seizure as one of the largest drug busts the criminal interdiction unit has handled since its inception in 2012. The street value of the methamphetamine is estimated at $5.3 million, illustrating the significant impact this bust could have on local and regional drug trafficking operations.
Houchin praised the criminal interdiction unit for its vigilance, emphasizing that routine traffic enforcement can often uncover major criminal activity. He encouraged the public to remain observant and report suspicious behavior, which may assist law enforcement in preventing drugs from reaching local communities.
Community and Law Enforcement Impact
Methamphetamine continues to pose a serious threat to communities, driving addiction, crime, and violence. Law enforcement agencies across Nebraska have increased their efforts to intercept illegal drugs in transit, particularly along major highways such as Interstate 80.
Routine traffic stops, like the one that led to this arrest, are a critical tool in reducing drug availability. The arrest sends a message to traffickers that law enforcement is actively monitoring transportation routes.
Next Steps
Cano Ruacho and Collazo Jr. are currently in custody and face felony charges related to drug possession and trafficking. Court proceedings are expected to follow, as authorities continue their investigation into whether additional individuals or networks were involved in transporting the meth.
Do you think law enforcement should increase highway patrols to prevent drug trafficking? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
