Newly released documents have shed light on a narcotics investigation involving an Oxford, Mississippi, smoke shop linked to the recent deaths of two young men.
Officers executed a search warrant last Thursday at Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store on Heritage Drive. Two men were taken into custody—store owner Yahya Mohamed Mosleh, 51, and employee Islam Mohamed, 18—both charged with possession of Schedule I controlled substances with the intent to distribute, local officials confirmed.
An affidavit tied to the case indicates the investigation began after the deaths of Aidan Hamilton and Robert Strang. Hamilton, an Ole Miss student, reportedly purchased substances from Puffs on two occasions earlier this month—once on September 9 and again on September 14. Strang, officials say, obtained similar substances from a store in Yalobusha County.
Authorities believe both men had purchased a substance referred to as “Smax” Pseudo-DHM tablets, suspected to contain either kratom or a synthetic variant of the drug. Kratom, a herbal supplement banned in several states but legally available in Mississippi, is often marketed for its stimulating and opioid-like effects but has drawn criticism over its safety and the lack of federal regulation.
Police reports show that after Hamilton's death, undercover officers conducted a controlled drug purchase at Puffs. The product was reportedly confirmed as kratom, and investigators also purchased nitrous oxide. Shortly after, police carried out a raid on the business, leading to the arrests of Mosleh and Mohamed.
While an official cause of death for both young men has not been determined, the Lafayette County Coroner reported to law enforcement that their deaths appeared consistent with drug overdoses.
The ongoing case has raised broader concerns in the region about the risks associated with substances like kratom. Additional details will likely emerge as investigators work to determine if the purchased substances directly contributed to the reported fatalities.