Four people were arrested and a large quantity of suspected illegal products was seized during a multi-agency operation in Philadelphia and Neshoba County following an investigation that lasted more than a year.
According to the Philadelphia Police Chief, Eric Lyons, officers executed multiple search and arrest warrants beginning around 5:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1. The warrants stemmed from an investigation into the alleged sale and distribution of illegal controlled substances and other illegal products at businesses within the city.
During the investigation, authorities reportedly made purchases of suspected illegal products from local businesses. Evidence gathered led to search warrants being issued for several businesses, warehouses, and residences.
Search warrants were executed at the Shell Station on Highway 16 East, Shell Station on Highway 16 West, and Maxx Tobacco and Vapor on West Beacon Street. Officers also searched two warehouses at Eastgate Plaza on East Beacon Street.
Police said a large quantity of products suspected of being illegal was seized from the businesses and warehouses.
Search and arrest warrants were also served at three residences. Mohamad Elnaham, 19, and Zakio Elnaham, 39, both of Philadelphia, were arrested at a residence in the 500 block of East Main Street. Amro Elnaham, 35, of Philadelphia, was arrested at a residence in the 14000 block of Highway 488, while Khaled Elnaham, 29, of Philadelphia, was arrested at a residence in the 15000 block of Highway 488.
Amro Elnaham is charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, conspiracy to distribute narcotics, and trafficking narcotics.
Mohamad Elnaham is charged with sale of a controlled substance.
Zaki Elnaham and Khaled Elnaham are each charged with three counts of sale of a controlled substance and conspiracy to distribute narcotics.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Lyons says additional arrests and charges are possible.
The Philadelphia Police Department was assisted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, Alcoholic Beverage Control, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Office, Neshoba County Constable, and Neshoba Ambulance Services.
The City of Philadelphia is also considering an ordinance addressing the sale of hemp-derived products containing THC and kratom products within the city. Police are encouraging businesses selling hemp, THC, kratom, or similar products to ensure their inventory complies with applicable laws and regulations.
