In a significant drug bust, two Canadians were apprehended by Illinois State Police on Interstate 80, where authorities seized a truck hauling an estimated $40 million in cocaine. The volume of cocaine uncovered in the Volvo semi-trailer is reported at 1,146 pounds, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The vehicle was stopped near Geneseo in Henry County, roughly 150 miles west of Chicago.

As detailed by officials around 2:10 p.m. on Friday, a state trooper conducted a routine motor vehicle inspection that revealed "numerous indicators of criminal activity." In the wake of the initial search, the subsequent inspection yielded a considerable find of cocaine, boasting an approximate street value of more than $40 million, which led to the truck, that contained the cocaine, being thoroughly scrutinized. The two individuals arrested have been identified as Vanshpreet Singh, 27, and Manpreet Singh, 36, both residents of Ontario, Canada, and are now facing felony charges, as reported by CBS News Chicago.

The allegations against them include felony counts of cocaine trafficking, possession of cocaine with the intent to deliver, as well as possession of cocaine. Both men were detained at the Henry County Jail, where they find themselves awaiting their first court appearance. The Illinois State Police and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration’s Chicago Field Division collaborated in this investigation, demonstrating a coordinated effort in tackling drug trafficking.

"ISP’s coordinated focus on trafficking is helping keep dangerous drugs out of our communities," stated Brendan Kelly, Director of the Illinois State Police, in remarks that signaled the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in the realm of public safety.