Traffic stop in Arizona nets $9 million drug haul

By the CNN Wire Staff

Officials say the drugs were smuggled into the United States through Mexico.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Methamphetamine, black tar heroin confiscated in traffic stop
Officials found about 300 pounds of illegal drugs in 2005 Nissan Armada
28-year-old driver faces several drug charges

(CNN) -- Arizona police confiscated nearly $9 million worth of illegal drugs during a routine traffic stop, officials said Tuesday.

A 2005 Nissan Armada was pulled over Friday night on state route 347 just south of the city of Maricopa, a statement from the Pinal County Sheriff's Office said. It was carrying nearly 200 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 100 pounds of black tar heroin, the statement said.

An investigation by the sheriff's department revealed the truck was being used to transport the drugs after they were smuggled into the United States through the Mexico desert, the statement said.

Jessica Velasco, 28, who was driving the SUV when it was stopped, told deputies that the drugs belonged to her husband.

She remains jailed on several charges including possession of a dangerous drug, possession of a dangerous drug for sale, transportation of a dangerous drug, possession of a narcotic drug, and possession of a narcotic drug for sale, the sheriff's office said.

The search continues for the passenger, a Hispanic male, who fled the scene after the traffic stop, the statement said.