In Drug Bust, ICE Finds Truck Drivers Were Illegal With CA Issued Licenses

Photo: DHS.gov

India-West News Desk

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Two Indian nationals residing illegally in the United States are facing federal scrutiny after Indiana authorities discovered more than 300 pounds of cocaine concealed within their semi-truck.

Jasveer Singh illegally entered the United States in March 2017 near Otay Mesa, California. His criminal history includes a December 2025 arrest in San Bernardino for receiving stolen property. ICE lodged a detainer at that time, but the agency said it was not honored, and Singh was released back into the community.

Gurpreet Singh illegally crossed into the U.S. near Lukeville, Arizona, on March 11, 2023, and was later released into the country. During the Indiana investigation, he admitted to law enforcement that he is a citizen of India without legal status in the United States.

On January 4, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement lodged formal arrest detainers for Gurpreet Singh, 25, and Jasveer Singh, 30, following their narcotics trafficking arrest in Putnam County, Indiana. A routine commercial vehicle inspection led law enforcement to uncover 309 pounds of cocaine hidden in the truck’s sleeper berth.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the seized quantity represents enough narcotics to potentially cause more than 113,000 lethal doses.

Investigators found that both men were operating the commercial vehicle using Commercial Driver’s Licenses issued by California.

In a statement released by the agency, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized California’s sanctuary policies, saying the two men had been issued commercial licenses despite their immigration status.

ICE said the detainers were filed to ensure the two men remain in custody as their criminal and immigration proceedings continue.