A multi-month investigation by the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division has resulted in the arrest of an Eastern North Carolina tobacco shop owner on multiple felony drug charges.
Mohamed Saleh, 30, of Greenville, was detained on March 24 following an inquiry into two ABC-permitted businesses he owns in Jacksonville and Kinston.
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The investigation began in December 2025, at a compliance visit at Prince 2 Tobacco in Jacksonville. Agents discovered glass tubes being sold without needed purchase logs, as well as products marketed to help people dodge drug tests.
Officials said follow-up inspections at E Z Pass Tobacco in Kinston in early 2026 revealed further problems, including the sale of glass tubes, nitrous oxide products, and “liquid kratom shots,” which are not approved by the North Carolina ABC Commission.
In March, ALE agents supported the Kinston Police Department in a separate investigation that targeted illegal THC items at various vape and tobacco shops, including Saleh’s.
During a later investigation at the Jacksonville facility, authorities seized a product called “Tianaa,” which contains tianeptine, a Schedule II restricted substance, as well as suspected THC products. According to officials, subsequent testing revealed that THC levels surpassed legal limits.
Authorities say a search warrant was executed at Saleh’s Greenville residence, and he was arrested.
Saleh is facing several accusations, including felony trafficking of opium or heroin, possession with intent to sell or distribute controlled substances, keeping a controlled substance facility, and many violations of ABC-permitted business operations.
The investigation is underway.
