Canada, Ottawa: Authorities suspect that the confiscated cocaine is part of a larger global trafficking operation connected to terror funding.

Two Canadian men of Indian origin, Vanshpreet Singh, 27, and Manpreet Singh, 36, have been arrested on charges of cocaine possession and trafficking after a major drug bust valued at over $40 million. The discovery, made during a routine vehicle inspection by Illinois State Police (ISP) on Interstate 80, involved 1,146 pounds of high-quality cocaine hidden inside a Volvo semi-trailer.

Investigators believe that the seized drugs are part of a wider international trafficking network with ties to terrorism funding. Reports from CBS News indicate that the drugs were allegedly transported through Canada under the guidance of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to finance various activities, including support for Khalistani separatism and other operations aimed against India.

ISP Director Brendan Kelly commended the department’s continuous efforts to combat trafficking. “ISP’s focused approach to trafficking is instrumental in keeping harmful drugs out of our communities. Through commercial vehicle inspections, daily patrols, and dedicated anti-violence and trafficking operations, ISP is enhancing public safety,” Kelly remarked.

These arrests represent a major step forward in addressing drug-related crimes and their potential threats to national security. Ongoing investigations are focused on uncovering additional members of the trafficking syndicate and their activities.