Three workers at unlicensed Fairfield smoke shops arrested for selling THC products

Some of the THC products confiscated during an inspection and raid of three smoke shops in Fairfield by Fairfield Police Department and state agencies on Wednesday, Sept. 25. (Photo by Fairfield Police Department)

FAIRFIELD —Fairfield Police detectives in collaboration with multiple state agencies Wednesday, Sept. 25, raided three local smoke shops and charged three individuals with selling a controlled substance without a license.

The police said they conducted a series of inspections at the local smoke shops in partnership with the departments of Consumer Protection, Mental Health Services, Labor, and Revenue Services, uncovering a significant quantity of illegal THC products, including vape pens, edibles, pre-rolls, and marijuana.

The Fairfield Police Department’s Quality of Life Unit seized the illegal contraband, and investigations into these businesses are ongoing.

The following establishments were inspected:

  • Issam Plus, 92 Post Road
  • Mohegan Smoke Shop, 525 Tunxis Hill Cutoff
  • World Smoke and Cigar Shop, 95 Reef Road

As a result of these inspections, the Fairfield Police Department arrested Vivekanand Harilall, 36, an employee at World Smoke and Cigar Shop; Issam Madineh, 54, owner of Issam Plus; and

Tamer Nafaa, 50, employee at Issam Plus.

Besides being charged with sale of a controlled substance without a license, the three people were charged with possession of marijuana over 8 ounces with intent to sell or distribute. They were each issued a court appearance date of Oct. 8 at Bridgeport Superior Court. Further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues, police said.

While no one could be reached for comment at Issam Plus and World Smoke and Cigar Shop, an employee at Mohegan Smoke Shop who answered the phone said the shop remains open.

The Fairfield Police Department extends its gratitude to the public for their continued vigilance and for providing valuable tips and information related to these offenses.

“The department takes community concerns seriously and is actively working to address illegal activities that affect the safety and quality of life of Fairfield residents,” according to a police statement. “We encourage the public to continue sharing information to help us maintain the well-being of our community.”

Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Fairfield PD mobile app or by texting the keyword FPDCT plus your message to 847411 (Tip411). Tips can also be submitted online at fpdct.com/tips.