Police Seize Record Catch of Khat

Fairfax County Police Department
Public Information Office
4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Va. 22030
703-246-2253. TTY 703-204-2264. Fax 703-246-4253
FCPD-PIO@fairfaxcounty.gov
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police
News Release: 2010-1350255BW(4)
May 20, 2010

Police Seize Record Catch of Khat

Mason Police District – A police officer on patrol observed what appeared to be a drug transaction in a parking lot at 5981 Columbia Pike in the Falls Church area, around 6:10 p.m. on Saturday May 15. The officer stopped two men and conducted an investigation which revealed that one suspect was allegedly purchasing khat from the other. Both men were arrested and approximately 21 pounds of khat was seized. A subsequent search of one suspect’s house led to the seizure of an additional 111 pounds of khat.

This is believed to be the largest seizure of khat in Fairfax County history. Khat is an amphetamine and a Schedule I drug. It is a flowering evergreen shrub native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Typically, it is chewed like tobacco, though it can be smoked and sprinkled on food.

Ahmed Omer Abdujelel, 45, of 2846 Annandale Road #121 was charged with distribution of a Schedule I drug and distribution near certain properties (recreation center).

Ali Abdi Hersi, 47, of 30 Channing Street, NW, in Washington DC was charged with possession of a Schedule I drug.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.