INDIANA — Indiana State Police have arrested 84 people and seized more than 48 pounds of methamphetamine as part of multiple operations targeting interstate drug trafficking networks operating through southern Indiana.
Gov. Mike Braun said Indiana’s location and extensive highway system make the state a target for narcotics traffickers moving drugs across the country.
“We’re the crossroads of America, and sadly, that means they are going to be using this as a distribution hub,” Braun said.
According to state officials, the arrests stem from several investigations conducted since the beginning of the year. Authorities said the operations focused on disrupting networks responsible for transporting methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin into Indiana communities.
One investigation led to the seizure of 10 pounds of methamphetamine connected to a drug pipeline moving narcotics from Phoenix, Arizona, to Vincennes, Indiana.
Another operation targeted a trafficking network transporting methamphetamine and cocaine from Louisville and Cincinnati to Madison, Indiana. That investigation resulted in 29 arrests across Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio.
Police also announced 25 arrests tied to another drug pipeline that was allegedly moving narcotics from Louisville into Indiana.
In Vanderburgh County, investigators dismantled what officials described as an armed drug distribution network. During that operation, officers seized 28 firearms, approximately $50,000 in cash, 60 pounds of marijuana and additional quantities of methamphetamine.
Braun said the efforts are intended to reduce the flow of illegal drugs throughout Indiana and send a message to those involved in trafficking operations.
Indiana State Police said investigations into drug trafficking activity throughout the state remain ongoing.
