Oxford Vape Shop Raided: Two Arrested, 500+ Kratom Units Seized in Metro Narcotics Warrant

OXFORD, Miss. — Two men were arrested and charged with possession of a Schedule I controlled substance with intent to distribute after the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant Thursday at an Oxford vape and tobacco store.

According to a news release from the Metro Narcotics Unit, agents received information on September 24 that illegal substances were being sold from a retail business in Oxford. During the investigation, agents conducted a controlled purchase of illegal substances from the business, then applied for and were granted a search warrant.

Officers executed the warrant at Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store, located in the 100 block of Heritage Drive. During the search, agents recovered more than 500 units of kratom, along with an assortment of THC cartridges, gummies and other suspected narcotics. Kratom has been prohibited from possession, distribution and sale within the City of Oxford since 2019.

Arrested were Yahya Mohamed Mosleh, 51, of Oxford, and Islam Mohamed, 18, of Oxford. Both were charged with possession of Schedule I controlled substances with intent to distribute.

Investigators noted that the business owner, Amer Alowdi, 40, was indicted on narcotics trafficking charges in 2022 but fled the country before prosecution.

Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues, the release states. Investigators said those arrested may not be the last tied to the illegal distribution of these products, and enforcement efforts in Oxford will continue.

“If you choose to illegally sell these substances in our community, expect law enforcement to come looking for you,” the release states. “We will investigate. We will obtain warrants. We will seize illegal products, and we will hold those responsible accountable.”

Read more local crime coverage at DeSoto County News.

By Jon Myers