A months-long investigation by the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office has led to the arrest of a store owner and the seizure of thousands of illegal products—including kratom, tianeptine, and unapproved prescription drugs—being sold in violation of county and state laws.
The investigation began after the sheriff’s office received multiple complaints of stores selling illegal substances, including kratom and tianeptine. Kratom, though legal in some areas, is banned in Alcorn County under a 2019 ordinance that prohibits the sale, possession, and distribution of synthetic cannabinoids and other synthetic products. Tianeptine was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the Mississippi Legislature in 2023.
Following undercover operations at stores throughout the county, deputies executed a search warrant on April 10, 2025, at the 45 Truck Stop located at 753 Highway 45 South. The operation uncovered a massive stockpile of banned and controlled substances, including:
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Over 2,000 bottles of various kratom-based liquid products
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Hundreds of pill packs and capsules containing kratom or similar synthetic substances
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27 bottles (405 dosage units) of ZaZa White, which contains tianeptine
- Over 3,500 unapproved Sildenafil (Viagra) tablets, also seized from the premises
At the time of the raid, store clerks were cited, and on April 29, the store owner, Adel Ahmed Bader, turned himself in. He has been charged with possession of a counterfeit substance with intent to distribute and possession of a controlled substance. Bader was released on bond and awaits presentation of his case to a Grand Jury.
The Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the seizure of unregulated prescription medication. Officials say additional charges are pending.
“These substances are dangerous to our citizens and our community,” the sheriff’s office stated. “We will continue to investigate all allegations of businesses selling illegal products.”
The department also extended its thanks to the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics for assisting with the operation.
