A routine traffic stop on I-5 in Kings County led to the arrest of two men Tuesday afternoon on narcotics and firearms charges, authorities said.

California Highway Patrol officers stopped a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse around 4:35 p.m. for speeding and window tint violations, the CHP Coalinga Area office reported.

During the stop, the driver consented to a vehicle search, which uncovered about 10 pounds of suspected methamphetamine hidden in a backpack.

A passenger was found carrying a Beretta 9mm pistol, and officers also discovered a modified short-barreled assault rifle inside the vehicle, the CHP said.

Both men were arrested and booked into Kings County Jail on multiple narcotics and firearm-related charges, including possession and transportation of narcotics for sale across noncontiguous counties.

The methamphetamine was turned over to the Fresno High Impact Investigations Team for further investigation. CHP emphasized that the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.