First impressions can often deceive.
On Thursday, February 20, 2025, around 12:30 p.m., Arkansas State Police stopped a 2018 tractor-trailer on Interstate 40 near Crawford County’s 2-mile mark. The eastbound truck was pulled over for a traffic violation. Inside, they reportedly found dozens of boxes of drugs that were later seized. It was reportedly part of a trafficking operation reportedly involving out-of-state suspects. You can view a photo below.
Troopers Uncover 1,705 Pounds of Illegal Drug
A search of the trailer revealed 1,705 pounds of marijuana hidden in 42 boxes and a large duffel bag. The discovery marked a significant drug bust for the state.
The driver, Dawit Asefa, 48, from Silver Spring, Maryland, and passenger Ashenafi Mamo, 39, from Stone Mountain, Georgia, were taken into custody. They were transported to the Crawford County Detention Center.
Both men now face felony charges of Trafficking a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Authorities continue to investigate the case.
The seizure underscores Arkansas State Police’s efforts to combat illegal drug trafficking along major highways. Further details are expected as the investigation unfolds.
