GILA BEND, Ariz. - Just before 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Highway Patrol state trooper stopped a vehicle on eastbound Interstate 8 near Gila Bend, Arizona, for a civil traffic violation.

Troopers conduct enforcement details statewide—including along Interstate 8—in support of Operation Desert Guardian (ODG) to disrupt and deter criminal activity. During the stop, the responding trooper observed indicators consistent with criminal activity seen during these enforcement efforts.

Troopers observed a partially torn bag containing several blue pills in plain view in the back seat of the vehicle. Further investigation led to the discovery of approximately 95.7 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills and 35.4 pounds of suspected fentanyl powder.

With help from the AZDPS Pinal Narcotics Unit, troopers seized a total of approximately 131 pounds of suspected fentanyl, with an estimated street value of $511,000.

The driver was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County Jail on charges of possession and transportation of a narcotic drug for sale.

ODG is a statewide, intelligence-driven task force that unites local, state, Tribal, and federal partners to dismantle dangerous criminal networks operating in Arizona. ODG details focus on intercepting drug, human, and illegal weapons trafficking throughout the state.

This seizure highlights AZDPS troopers’ commitment to safer communities by targeting the criminal activity that impacts Arizonans every day.

For more information on ODG, visit the official operation website at odg.az.gov.

The Arizona Commercial Vehicle Safety Partnership (ACVSP) will participate in the annual three-day operation “International Roadcheck” on Interstate 17 and Interstate 40 in northern Arizona from Tuesday, May 12, 2026, through Thursday, May 14, 2026.

The ACVSP comprises Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau troopers and Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Enforcement and Compliance Division officers.

Enforcement areas will include Interstate 17 from McGuireville to Flagstaff, and Interstate 40 from Flagstaff to the Parks rest areas, as well as ports of entry in northern Arizona.

International Roadcheck is an annual inspection and enforcement operation led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). During the operation, CVSA-certified inspectors across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. will inspect commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, designated inspection areas, and along roadways to ensure regulatory compliance.

This year’s operation will place special emphasis on cargo securement and electronic logging device (ELD) tampering and falsifications.

Drivers and carriers are encouraged to prepare for this event by conducting pre-trip inspections, ensuring documentation is in order, and addressing any mechanical issues before getting on the road.

The mission of the Arizona Commercial Vehicle Safety Partnership is to ensure safe, secure, and efficient commercial transport across Arizona.

Update on May 20, 2026: Results of International Roadcheck 2026

From May 12–14, 2026, AZDPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement troopers partnered with ADOT, the FMCSA, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, and the Buckeye, Eloy, Surprise, and Prescott police departments for the annual “International Roadcheck” enforcement operation in northern Arizona.

Over the three-day operation, troopers and officers conducted more than 1,000 commercial vehicle inspections. Notably, approximately one-third of the inspected vehicles—or their drivers—had violations serious enough to be placed out of service. Among the most common issues were fictitious logbook entries and broken vehicle parts. Troopers also seized more than 5,200 pounds of marijuana during the operation.

Two public outreach events were held to educate company owners, drivers, and community members about commercial vehicle safety. More than 40 members of the trucking industry observed inspections firsthand during the operation.

AZDPS extends our appreciation to the Arizona Trucking Association, Diamond Trucking, and White Mountain Trucking for their support during this event.

On the afternoon of Thursday, April 30, 2026, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Canine District trooper seized an estimated 169 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop east of Yuma. Two suspects were arrested on felony charges, including transportation of a dangerous drug.

AZDPS commends the coordinated efforts of our Canine District troopers, supported by Highway Patrol District Four and the Yuma Narcotics Squad. Their work reflects the Department’s continued commitment to disrupting criminal activity and keeping Arizona communities safe.

AZDPS also thanks our colleagues at the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Yuma Field Office for their support and assistance in this investigation.