### Emergency Landing on Oceanside Highway Reveals Cocaine Haul
An emergency landing by a small airplane on Highway 76 in Oceanside, California, unveiled a surprising discovery: a kilogram of cocaine. The incident occurred at 1:45 AM on Thursday, September 26, as the pilot, identified as 36-year-old Troy Smith, reported technical difficulties to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Smith, alongside his 21-year-old co-pilot, Gabriel Wright, managed to land the aircraft safely. While both men were unharmed, their ordeal took a turn when Oceanside Police arrived shortly after the landing. Officers witnessed Wright attempting to discard a backpack into a ditch, which led them to inspect its contents and find the cocaine.
Smith and Wright have been detained and are currently under investigation by the North County Narcotics Task Force in collaboration with the FAA.
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### Related News: Recent Drug Busts in California
#### Significant Cocaine Seizure at Southern California Border
In a concerted effort to curb drug trafficking, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the border crossing in San Diego seized more than 50 pounds of cocaine hidden in a vehicle’s gas tank. The incident, which took place earlier this month, underscores the ongoing issue of drug smuggling in the region.
#### DEA Raids Uncover Elaborate Drug Network
In another major operation, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) executed a series of raids in Los Angeles, dismantling a widespread narcotics network. The raids resulted in multiple arrests and the confiscation of large quantities of various illicit substances, including methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.
#### Cross-Border Tunnel Busted in San Diego
Authorities discovered a sophisticated cross-border tunnel used for drug smuggling between Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, California. The tunnel, found last week, featured reinforced walls, lighting, and a rail system, highlighting the lengths to which smugglers go to evade border security.
These incidents reflect the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in California, demonstrating the persistent challenges law enforcement faces in the region.