US authorities have arrested two truck drivers of Indian origin in the state of Indiana for allegedly smuggling a massive quantity of cocaine concealed inside a semi-truck, according to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The seizure was made following a routine vehicle inspection that led to the recovery of 309 pounds of cocaine.
The arrests took place in Putnam County, Indiana. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged detainers on January 4 against the two accused, 25-year-old Gurpreet Singh and 30-year-old Jasveer Singh, after they were taken into custody by local law enforcement agencies.
DHS said the cocaine was hidden inside the sleeper berth of the semi-truck. Officials noted that the quantity seized was significant, with authorities estimating that even a small amount of cocaine can be fatal, underscoring the scale of the operation.
Both men were reportedly in possession of Commercial Drivers&rsquo; Licenses issued by the state of California. The case has triggered sharp political reactions, with senior DHS officials criticising California&rsquo;s sanctuary policies. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the policies as reckless and claimed they pose a serious risk to public safety.
According to DHS, Gurpreet Singh illegally entered the United States on March 11, 2023, near Lukeville, Arizona, and was later released into the country. Authorities said he admitted to being an Indian citizen and acknowledged his illegal entry. Jasveer Singh is reported to have entered the US earlier, in March 2017, near Otay Mesa, California.
Federal agencies are continuing their investigation into the case, including possible links to wider drug trafficking networks. Both accused remain in custody as legal proceedings move forward.

Over 300 pounds of cocaine seized from semi-truck during Indiana inspection

Two Indian-Origin Drivers Held With Cocaine in US

Over 300 pounds of cocaine seized from semi-truck during Indiana inspection

January 8, 2026 | 12:27 IST