ELK MOUNTAIN n The largest seizure of heroin in recent history, possibly ever, by the Wyoming Highway Patrol was made on Interstate 80 on August 26.

Approximately 11.3 pounds of heroin in powder form, known as "China White" because of its pure white color, was seized during a traffic stop 2 miles east of Elk Mountain in the early afternoon, according to a release from the patrol on Thursday.

The street value of the illegal drug depends on the amount that the heroin is diluted and the production method. White heroin is generally considered the most refined and most potent. Due to the purity of this particular load of "China White" heroin, it is estimated that the street value, at a minimum, is approximately $10 million and could be worth substantially more, the patrol said.

The eastbound 2005 Nissan Altima was stopped by a trooper for speeding 85 mph in a 75 mph zone.

During the traffic contact, the trooper's K-9 alerted to the presence of the odor of illegal drugs.

Troopers searched the vehicle and found a hidden compartment between the back seat and the trunk area of the vehicle. The compartment was designed to be opened electronically via a hidden switch.

The driver of the Altima, 32-year-old Sergei P. Ludwig, has been arrested and charged with felony possession of a controlled substance. Ludwig is from Elizabeth, N.J.

As is standard practice in drug cases of this magnitude, the patrol requested assistance from special agents with the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. Special agents from DCI's Southwest Enforcement Team continue to investigate this case.

It is believed that the load originated in California and was destined for an unknown location in New Jersey.