Officers and detectives from the Port of Seattle Police Department, in cooperation with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), arrested three individuals and seized 11 kilograms of cocaine last week as part of the largest drug seizure ever at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, according to a port press release.

Three suspects were taken into custody immediately and were indicted Thursday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

“Last week’s seizure and arrests represent good police work, and I’m very proud of the officers and detectives who participated,” said Port Police Chief Colleen Wilson. “I’m also grateful for the ongoing partnership with our colleagues at the TSA.”

On Sept. 30, the suspects checked-in bags prior to boarding a flight to Alaska. TSA officers discovered five kilograms of cocaine in one bag during routine X-ray procedures for all checked baggage and notified port police.

The bag owner was located at the departure gate and, with the help of airline personnel, was determined to be traveling with other companions. Further investigation by police – including assistance from Officer Lilly, a member of the port’s K-9 unit – led to the search of two more bags where an additional six kilograms were discovered.

The suspects have been indicted for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. The penalty is a mandatory maximum 10 years to life in prison and up to a $4 million fine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes the 11 kilos of cocaine is one of the largest seizures of its kind in the region.