Nelly Arrested For Ecstasy Possession

Bad news for Nelly … the rapper was busted in Missouri … and cops say illicit drugs are involved.

Nelly was arrested early Wednesday morning for a couple offenses … possession of four ecstasy pills and not having insurance … according to online arrest records.

The “Hot In Herre” rapper was busted after being pulled over in Maryland Heights … a suburb outside St. Louis, Nelly’s hometown.

Nelly — government name Cornell Haynes II — was taken into custody at 4:45 AM Wednesday and booked at the Maryland Heights Police Department. He’s since been released.

TMZ obtained Nelly’s mug shot … and his eyes appear bloodshot and he’s mostly expressionless in a black hoodie, white undershirt and some bling.

KRCG news in Missouri was first to report Nelly’s arrest.

We reached out to Nelly’s camp, as well as police … so far no word back.

Story developing …