ALE special agents served search warrants following an illegal THC product investigation in Columbus County resulting in numerous charges, seizures, and the store owner being arrested.
This investigation originally stemmed from a complaint that teens purchased vape products from two tobacco stores in Tabor City and subsequently became ill after ingesting the products.
Through the course of the investigation, ALE special agents identified and determined Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products from four businesses contained more than 0.3 % THC, making the products illegal to possess and sell.
On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, ALE, along with the North Carolina Department of Revenue, North Carolina Secretary of State’s Office, Whiteville Police Department, Tabor City Police Department, and Columbus County Sheriff’s Office executed searches for illegal THC products at four Whiteville businesses owned and operated by Abdulfatah Moha Mozib.
The businesses included:
* Zacks Discount Tobacco, located at 14 Whiteville Mini Mall, Whiteville, NC
* 910 Vape & Tobacco, located at 603 Jefferson Street, Whiteville, NC
* M&A Tobacco, located at 300 Columbus Corners Drive Unit 212, Whiteville, NC
* Tabor Tobacco and Vape Outlet, located at 102 Tabor Crossing, Tabor City, NC
As a result of the searches, ALE special agents seized a large amount of illegal THC products and cash.
“Our joint efforts have delivered a resounding message that the illegal sell of vape products containing prohibited substances will not be tolerated within our county said W. Rogers, Columbus County Sheriff. “We remain committed to protecting our community, especially our youth, from these harmful substances.”
Abdulfatah Moha Mozib, 25, of Whiteville, was charged with one count of Sell or Deliver Marijuana, thirteen counts of Possession with Intent to Sell or Deliver Marijuana, and thirteen counts of Felony Maintain a Dwelling/Vehicle/Place for Controlled Substances. Mozib was previously charged with Possession with Intent to Sell or Deliver Marijuana from a prior THC investigation.
North Carolina Secretary of State’s Office also seized an assortment of counterfeit trademarked items during the searches.
“ALE special agents initiated this investigation after receiving complaints of youth becoming sick after using a product purchased at one of these locations” said Bryan House, Director of North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement. “This is an ongoing case, and we will continue to partner with other agencies to address this criminal activity and identify those who are profiting from these crimes.”
About ALE:
ALE’s 111 specially trained agents have the authority to arrest and take investigatory action throughout North Carolina. Their primary responsibility is the enforcement of Alcoholic Beverage Control, tobacco, state lottery and gambling laws.
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