PUTNAM COUNTY, Ind. — Law enforcement authorities seized over 400 pounds of cocaine on Monday in a semi truck. The driver is facing felony charges because of the discovery.
According to a release issued Monday evening, Indiana State Police (ISP) Criminal Interdiction Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a commercial motor vehicle traveling eastbound on I‑70 at the 37-mile marker, near Cloverdale in Putnam County for speeding.
ISP’s release stated that during the interaction with the driver, 27-year-old Harmandeep Singh of Bakersfield, California, ISP says the trooper observed multiple criminal indicators suggesting the driver was “operating below industry standards.”
Consent to search the tractor and trailer was requested and granted. Police say inside the rear of the trailer, several duffel bags and cardboard boxes were found, which contained approximately 392 pounds (178 kilograms) of suspected cocaine. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is approximately $9 million. Singh was taken into custody and transported to the Putnam County Jail where he is being held on a $30,000 cash bond. He has been preliminarily charged with Dealing Narcotic Drug, a Level 2 Felony, and Possession of Narcotic Drug, a Level 3 Felony
Final charges will be determined by the Putnam County Prosecutor.
ISP stated in its release that drug interdiction has been a major priority and remains a central focus in 2026.
“One key strategy in preventing illicit drugs from entering the Hoosier State is the continued expansion of the Indiana State Police Interdiction Unit,” ISP stated. “This unit, operating full‑time within the Indiana State Police Drug Enforcement Section (DES), focuses on criminal interdiction efforts along Indiana’s major thoroughfares. Its mission is to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and other contraband before they reach Indiana communities—helping safeguard lives and property throughout the state.”
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
