September 25, 2026 – Merced CHP officials report that on September 23, 2026, what started as a traffic stop in Merced County led to the discovery of two sophisticated hidden compartments-and a significant amount of suspected narcotics.

During the stop, a Central Division canine officer received consent to search the vehicle and enclosed trailer. Inside the trailer was a Nissan Juke, which was found to have two concealed compartments built into the driver and passenger-side floors.

The compartments contained multiple packages of suspected cocaine. Officers recovered approximately 77 pounds, with an estimated street value of $1,398,320.

The driver and passenger were taken into custody, and the investigation was turned over to the Merced Area Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team (MAGNET).

Both individuals were later booked into the Merced County Jail for possession of narcotics for sale and transportation of narcotics across noncontiguous counties.

Source & photos: Merced CHP