2 Indian Nationals Arrested with 300 lbs of Cocaine in US; ICE Lodges Detainers Amid “Mega Crackdown”

A massive drug bust in Indiana has landed two Indian nationals in federal custody, putting the spotlight back on the intensifying immigration crackdown in the United States.

In a major operation confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) this week, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has lodged strict detainers against two Indian nationals arrested in Putnam County, Indiana. The duo was caught transporting a staggering 300 pounds (approx. 136 kg) of cocaine hidden inside a semi-truck.

This incident comes just days after reports of heightened ICE activity across major US cities, including a controversial shooting in Minneapolis, signaling a tough year ahead for immigrants with criminal records or irregular status.

Read more: Massive Weapons Haul 2026

The Indiana Drug Bust: What Happened?

The arrest occurred on January 5, 2026, during a routine traffic stop on the interstate in Putnam County. Indiana State Police stopped a commercial semi-truck for inspection.

• The Discovery: During the search, officers discovered multiple duffle bags concealed within the cargo. The bags contained brick-like packages of a white powdery substance, which tested positive for cocaine.
• The Haul: The total seizure amounted to over 300 pounds, with an estimated street value running into millions of dollars.
• The Suspects: Two male Indian nationals, who were operating the truck, were immediately taken into custody. Their names have not yet been released pending ongoing interrogation.

ICE Steps In: “Strict Detainers” Lodged

Following the arrest, ICE moved swiftly. The agency has lodged “immigration detainers” against both suspects.

• What this means: An ICE detainer is a formal request to local law enforcement (jail) to hold a suspect for an additional 48 hours after their release date so that ICE agents can take them into federal custody for deportation proceedings.
• Status Violation: The lodging of detainers confirms that the two men are either undocumented immigrants or legal residents who have violated their visa terms by committing a federal felony.

Context: The 2026 “Trump Crackdown”

This arrest is part of a broader, aggressive enforcement strategy under the current US administration. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has recently launched a series of “surge operations” targeting “criminal aliens.”

• Minneapolis Incident: Just yesterday (January 8), an ICE agent fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis during one such operation, sparking protests. The atmosphere is tense, and federal agents are on high alert.
• Focus on Trafficking: The DHS has explicitly stated that dismantling drug trafficking networks run by foreign nationals is a “top priority” for 2026.

Impact on the Indian Community

While the majority of the Indian diaspora in the US consists of highly skilled professionals (H-1B/Green Card holders), incidents involving high-profile crimes like drug trafficking can lead to:

1. Stricter Border Checks: Indians traveling to the US may face more rigorous questioning at ports of entry.
2. Visa Scrutiny: Increased vetting for commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and work visas in the logistics sector.
3. Community Reputation: Community leaders are urging Indian nationals to stay vigilant and compliant with US laws to avoid being caught in the widening net of ICE raids.

What Happens Next?

The two accused will face federal charges for Trafficking of a Controlled Substance. If convicted, they face mandatory minimum prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years. Once their prison terms are completed, they will be handed over to ICE for immediate deportation to India.

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