‘Hotel California’ cocaine found stashed in secret compartment during $1M bust

The driver and passenger consented to a vehicle search.

Police discovered several packs of cocaine worth an estimated $1 million hidden in a car’s floorboards during a traffic stop in Merced.

The shocking find occurred on Tuesday when officers with the California Highway Patrol pulled over the driver of a Honda Accord on Highway 99, just south of Mission Avenue, for a traffic violation.

Rectangular packages wrapped in clear plastic, some labeled — Police discovered several packs of cocaine worth an estimated $1 million hidden in a car’s floorboards during a traffic stop in Merced.

Car floorboard with carpeting pulled back to reveal exposed wiring and insulation with two Little Tree air fresheners. — The Merced bust also reflects a broader trend of California-based traffickers. Instagram/@California Highway Patrol

After the driver and passenger consented to a vehicle search, officers aided by K9 units and the Merced Area Gang Narcotic Enforcement Team found two compartments hidden beneath the car’s front seats holding about 10 kilograms of cocaine.

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They were stamped with labels reading “Hotel California,” after the classic Eagles hit.

The search, aided by CHP K9 units and the Merced Area Gang Narcotic Enforcement Team, revealed two concealed compartments hidden beneath the front seats.