SMITHFIELD – Earlier today (Friday), the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Division along with the Smithfield Police Department executed a search warrant at Mr. Smoke & Vape, located at 1547 East Market Street, Suite 102, in Smithfield.
The investigation began after receiving a request from Smithfield Police Department who received complaints alleging illegal drug sales.
During the search, ALE agents said they seized over 11 pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, one rifle, one handgun, and U.S. currency.
The following individuals have been charged in connection with the operation:
Wail Jamal Ahmed Al Saidi, 21, of Clinton, the co-owner of Mr. Smoke & Vape, has be charged with the following:
- Trafficking marijuana by possession
- Felony possession of marijuana
- Possess With Intent to Sell/Deliver marijuana
- Felony maintain a store for keeping and selling controlled substances
- Felony conspiracy to sell marijuana
- Marijuana paraphernalia
Taher Ahmed Al Lahabi, 48, of Clayton, the co-owner of Mr. Smoke & Vape, has been charged with:
- Trafficking marijuana by possession
- Felony possession of marijuana
- Possess With Intent to Sell/Deliver marijuana
- Felony maintain a store for keeping and selling controlled substances
- Felony conspiracy to sell marijuana
- Marijuana paraphernalia
Edwin Tyler Lusk, 19, of Smithfield, an employee at Mr. Smoke & Vape, has been charged with:
- Felony possession of marijuana
- Marijuana paraphernalia
“This is a great example of agencies working together to make our communities safer”, said Smithfield Police Chief Pete Hedrick. “This investigation began with a tip and through diligent efforts by ALE resulted in a significant seizure of illegal narcotics. I am proud of both agencies’ commitment to making Smithfield a great place to live and shop.”
