Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins announces major joint FHP and DEA operation that seizes 14.7 million dollars in cocaine from drug traffickers in Florida
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida law enforcement agencies are once again proving their commitment to protecting the state’s communities and families. A recent joint operation between the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led to the seizure of a massive haul of cocaine worth nearly $14.7 million, disrupting a major drug trafficking route before the narcotics could reach Florida’s streets.
The operation, conducted on October 5, 2025, began after the DEA’s West Palm Beach office alerted state authorities about a semi-truck suspected of transporting drugs from the Mexican–Texas border into South Florida. The intelligence sparked a coordinated response from FHP’s elite Criminal Interdiction Unit (CIU), which quickly tracked down the truck traveling southbound along the Florida Turnpike.
Troopers initiated a lawful traffic stop and, during a detailed inspection, discovered a hidden compartment built into the truck. Inside, officers found multiple duffel bags filled with tightly packed bricks of cocaine. The total seizure weighed approximately 173 kilograms, estimated to have a street value of $17.3 million.
Law enforcement swiftly detained those involved, including one individual who had previously been deported from the United States. All suspects were taken into federal custody and are now facing serious charges under federal law. Authorities have launched a broader investigation to trace the origin and destination of the narcotics, as well as the network responsible for the smuggling attempt.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida remains a national model for law and order,” said Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. “This operation is a powerful example of that commitment, showing that when we work together, we stop dangerous drugs before they ever reach our streets. Our message to drug traffickers is clear: do not bring your poison into our state. We will find you, we will arrest you, and we will always stand on the front lines to protect Floridians from those who threaten our safety and our future.”
The bust represents yet another victory in Florida’s broader strategy to combat illegal drug trafficking. Since 2019, the Florida Highway Patrol has confiscated more than 14,000 kilograms of illicit substances, including 925 kilograms of cocaine, 23.5 kilograms of fentanyl, 14 kilograms of heroin, 9,600 kilograms of marijuana, and 19 kilograms of MDMA.
State officials credit this success to stronger cooperation between state and federal agencies, coupled with decisive enforcement policies.
“This operation demonstrates that under President Trump and Governor DeSantis, the teamwork and cooperation between federal and state law enforcement has never been better,” said Executive Director Dave Kerner. “With the southern border shut down, transnational narco cartels can no longer simply walk across the border with guns, drugs, and human couriers. This forces cartels to attempt to move large amounts of narcotics in a way that allows the full weight of law enforcement efforts to not just interdict, but to investigate the supply chain back to their point of origin. Ultimately, a secure border allows us to target the ultimate source of evil; the criminal cartels and the resources they rely upon.”
Officials emphasized that this joint operation reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to protecting Florida families from the devastating effects of narcotics. With a clear strategy centered on coordination, intelligence sharing, and rapid response, law enforcement aims to keep drugs out of local communities and dismantle criminal organizations at every level.
Florida’s leaders have repeatedly stated that the state will not serve as a corridor for narcotics trafficking. By continuing to prioritize strong partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies, the Sunshine State is reinforcing its reputation as one of the toughest states in the nation when it comes to public safety and drug enforcement.
As Lieutenant Governor Collins noted, Florida’s approach is simple but unwavering — protect communities, stop criminals, and send a clear warning to anyone attempting to bring illegal substances across state lines.
“This latest operation is not just a law enforcement success,” Collins added. “It’s a reminder that Florida will always stand united in defense of our people. Every pound of drugs seized represents lives saved, families protected, and a safer future for our state.”
With the continued cooperation between agencies like the FHP and DEA, officials say Florida remains at the forefront of the national fight against drug trafficking — a fight they intend to keep winning.
