On June 1 and 2, a coordinated multi-jurisdictional criminal enforcement effort was conducted along the I-70 corridor through Geary County. The Sheriff's Department provided the information, and said the operation was aimed at locating, identifying, and apprehending major criminals using I-70 as a trafficking corridor.This operation brought together personnel from the Geary County Sheriff's Office, Junction City Police Department, Dickinson County Sheriff's Office, and Marshall County Sheriff's Office.
On the evening of June 2, Undersheriff Justin Stopper and Sheriff Nate Boeckman, conducted a traffic stop on a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) at mile marker 302 on I-70 for traffic infractions. During the stop indicators of further criminal activity were observed, prompting the deployment of a K9 unit from the Junction City Police Department.A probable cause search of the CMV revealed approximately 3,280 pounds of marijuana and 260 pounds of cocaine concealed within the trailer. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is approximately $4 million.
Following the discovery, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was notified and responded to assist with the investigation.Two individuals were taken into custody as a result of the traffic stop:• Yonas Tsegay, 33, of California• Samson Haliab, 31, also of California.
Sheriff Boeckman expressed his appreciation for the interagency cooperation that led to this outcome:"This operation is a powerful example of what law enforcement can accomplish when we work together across jurisdictional lines. The commitment and coordination of all agencies involved was key to this success."
The Geary County Sheriff's Office thanked all participating agencies for their professionalism and dedication.
Both subjects are being held on $500,000 bonds each and the investigation is ongoing.