[snip]
The suspect’s country of origin and the location of his detention were not disclosed. Authorities confirmed that he is in immigration proceedings following the arrest.
Governor Rhoden credited the bust to Operation Prairie Thunder, a state initiative enabling law enforcement to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“We are taking action to protect the people of South Dakota from criminals and drug traffickers. Our Highway Patrol showed incredible professionalism in achieving this record drug bust,” Rhoden said.
[snip]
Operation Prairie Thunder operates under a 287(g) Task Force agreement between South Dakota and ICE. The agreement, signed earlier this year, authorizes South Dakota Highway Patrol officers to perform certain federal immigration enforcement duties, including arresting suspects without a warrant.
The 287(g) Task Force agreements were ended under the Obama and Biden administrations but reinstated by President Donald Trump on his first day back in office. As of May 2025, ICE reports that 40 states have at least one active 287(g) Task Force agreement.
[snip]
Officials say the meth seizure represents a significant disruption to drug trafficking operations in the region. The ongoing investigation will determine the origin and intended distribution network for the drugs.
* Original Article:
https://thepopulisttimes.com/record-12-million-meth-bust-in-south-dakota-leads-to-arrest-of-illegal-alien/