2 arrested after kratom found inside business near Ole Miss in Oxford
Two people were arrested after more than 500 units of kratom were found inside an Oxford, Mississippi, business, days after two University of Mississippi students were found dead with kratom also found at both locations.
Robert Strang, 20, of Atlanta, and Aidan Hamilton, 18, a freshman from Colorado, were identified as the two students. Authorities have not determined whether kratom played a role in either death.
The Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit said agents searched Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store in the 100 block of Heritage Drive on Thursday. The business is located about 1 mile from the University of Mississippi campus.
The search followed an investigation into the alleged sale of illegal substances at the business. Agents conducted a controlled purchase before obtaining a search warrant, according to the OPD.
During the search, agents recovered more than 500 units of kratom, along with THC cartridges, gummies and other suspected narcotics.
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.
The business owner, Amer Alowdi, 40, was indicted on narcotics trafficking charges in 2022 but fled the country before he could be prosecuted, according to OPD.
Kratom has been prohibited from possession, distribution and sale within the City of Oxford since 2019.
The Metro Narcotics Unit said the investigation remains active and that additional charges may be filed.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
