Pontotoc County, MS – A routine traffic stop on Interstate 22 turned into one of the largest drug seizures in recent county history after deputies discovered 600 pounds of illegal narcotics inside a van, with an estimated street value of $1 million, authorities said.
The Incident: Routine Stop Turns into Major Bust
According to the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Department, deputies pulled over a van on Sunday evening, December 21, 2024, for a traffic violation along I-22. During the stop, officers noticed suspicious behavior and conducted a search of the vehicle, uncovering hundreds of pounds of illegal drugs concealed inside.
Sheriff Leo Mask confirmed that the discovery included a large quantity of narcotics packaged for distribution. “Our deputies did an excellent job staying alert during what began as a simple traffic stop,” Sheriff Mask said. “Their quick action prevented a significant amount of drugs from reaching our communities.”
Investigation and Arrest
The driver of the van, identified as Almas Bekzhanov, 39, of Kazakhstan, was immediately taken into custody. Investigators determined that Bekzhanov was in the United States illegally and has been charged with trafficking a controlled substance under Mississippi law.
The Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office said they have since contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding Bekzhanov’s immigration status. Federal authorities are now assisting with the ongoing investigation, which could involve international drug trafficking networks.
“This arrest highlights the importance of cooperation between local and federal law enforcement agencies,” Sheriff Mask stated. “We will continue to work closely with ICE and other partners to combat large-scale drug operations.”
The Scale of the Seizure
Authorities estimate the 600 pounds of narcotics have a street value of approximately $1 million, making it one of the largest seizures ever recorded in Pontotoc County. Investigators are still analyzing the specific type of narcotics seized, though early reports suggest the drugs were intended for distribution across multiple states.
Law enforcement officials noted that such massive quantities often point to organized smuggling operations using interstate routes like I-22 as transport corridors between major hubs.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Bekzhanov is currently being held at the Pontotoc County Jail without bond, pending further charges and federal review. He faces severe penalties, including a potential lengthy prison sentence and deportation following prosecution.
Authorities are continuing to trace the origin and destination of the shipment. The Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are expected to assist in the broader investigation.
“Our community is safer today because of the vigilance of our deputies,” Sheriff Mask added. “We remain committed to removing dangerous drugs and traffickers from our roads.”
Broader Context: Ongoing Fight Against Drug Trafficking
Mississippi law enforcement agencies have reported an increase in large-scale drug seizures in recent years, often tied to interstate trafficking networks. Officials say these busts underscore the growing need for cross-agency collaboration to disrupt narcotics routes before they reach smaller communities.
According to federal data, I-22 and nearby highways have become key transport corridors for illegal drug shipments moving through the Southeast.
Conclusion
The Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Department’s quick action during a routine stop prevented $1 million worth of illegal drugs from entering circulation. As investigators continue to uncover the full scope of the operation, Sheriff Mask emphasized that his office will remain “relentless in keeping drugs and traffickers off Mississippi’s roads.”
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