A news release from Lafayette County Metro Narcotics -
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit Executes Search Warrant at Oxford Business
OXFORD, MISS. — On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit received information regarding the alleged sale of illegal substances from a retail business located within the City of Oxford.
During the investigation, Metro Narcotics agents were able to conduct a controlled purchase of illegal substances from the business. Based upon evidence obtained during the investigation, agents applied for and were granted a search warrant.
Law enforcement officers subsequently executed the search warrant at Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store, located in the 100 block of Heritage Drive in Oxford.
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.
Yahya Mohamed Mosleh, 51, of Oxford, and Islam Mohamed, 18, of Oxford, were arrested and charged with possession of Schedule I controlled substances with intent to distribute. In 2022, the business owner, Amer Alowdi, 40 years old, was indicted for trafficking narcotics. Alowdi fled the country before prosecution. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
For years, our community has taken a clear position regarding these types of products. We have educated businesses, conducted compliance checks, and worked aggressively to prevent illegal and potentially dangerous substances from being sold in Oxford.
Despite those efforts, some individuals and businesses continue to put profit ahead of the safety of the people who live, work, and attend school in our community.
Our message is direct: if you choose to illegally sell these substances in our community, expect law enforcement to come looking for you. We will investigate. We will obtain warrants. We will seize illegal products, and we will hold those responsible accountable.
This investigation does not end with these arrests. These individuals and this business are not necessarily the only people involved in the illegal distribution of these products, and
they should not expect to be the last arrests made as our enforcement efforts continue.
We are extremely grateful for the hard work of the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and every local, state, and federal law enforcement partner assisting with these investigations.
Our responsibility is to protect this community. We will continue pursuing those who knowingly place dangerous and illegal substances into it.
This remains an active investigation. Additional information will be released when appropriate