Baltimore, MD – Three people have been arrested and nearly 65 pounds of marijuana seized following coordinated raids on two convenience stores in Baltimore. The operation, led by multiple law enforcement agencies, was part of a months-long investigation into illegal marijuana sales in the city.
The Incident: Police Raids Two Baltimore Stores
According to the Baltimore Police Department, detectives executed search warrants at two businesses on Wednesday after receiving complaints of illegal cannabis distribution. The raids were carried out at Pulaski Convenience, located at 401 N. Bouldin Street, and EMonument Convenience, located at 2108 E. Monument Street.
The operation involved officers from the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office, the Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco and Cannabis Commission (ATCC), and the Baltimore Police Department’s SWAT team.
“The arrests were the result of a coordinated investigation into unlicensed marijuana sales,” a police spokesperson said. “Our goal is to ensure that all cannabis-related businesses operate safely and within Maryland’s legal framework.”
Investigation and Evidence Seized
During the searches, investigators recovered a substantial amount of evidence linked to illegal drug trafficking. Authorities detailed the following items seized from the two businesses:
- Nearly 65 pounds of marijuana
- 205 vape cartridges
- 1,113 individual marijuana packages
- $63,500 in U.S. currency
The arrests concluded an investigation that had been underway for several months, following community complaints about possible unlicensed cannabis activity in East Baltimore.
Detectives said the stores were operating without the proper state licenses, selling unregulated marijuana products that had not undergone laboratory testing or quality control as required by Maryland law.
Arrests and Charges Filed
Police arrested 22-year-old Muslim Ahmed, 33-year-old Magdi Elroubat, and 37-year-old Mohamed Ahmed at the scene. All three suspects are facing multiple charges related to possession with intent to distribute, illegal cannabis sales, and operating without a license.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the suspects were affiliated with the ownership of both businesses. The Maryland Alcohol, Tobacco and Cannabis Commission is assisting with the investigation to determine whether the stores were part of a larger unlicensed sales network.
Legal Context: Maryland’s Cannabis Laws
Although cannabis was legalized in Maryland in July 2023, only licensed dispensaries are allowed to sell marijuana products for medical or adult recreational use.
As of October 2025, state data shows that 107 retail licenses have been issued for both medical and adult-use cannabis sales, with 12 licensed retailers operating in Baltimore. These retailers must comply with strict regulations on product testing, packaging, and advertising.
Under Maryland law, cannabis businesses must also follow zoning restrictions, established in June 2024, which prohibit dispensaries from operating within 500 feet of schools, child care centers, playgrounds, recreation centers, libraries, or places of worship.
“Licensed operators go through an extensive vetting process,” the ATCC said in a statement. “Illegal sellers undermine consumer safety and put communities at risk.”
Community Impact and Ongoing Enforcement
Local officials say the crackdown on unlicensed cannabis sales is part of a broader effort to ensure that Baltimore’s legal marijuana industry operates responsibly. Law enforcement agencies are continuing to monitor businesses suspected of distributing untested or unregulated cannabis products.
The Baltimore Police Department said more arrests may follow as they investigate the financial records and supply chain linked to the two stores.
Community leaders praised the joint operation, saying it reinforces trust between residents and law enforcement while protecting the integrity of Maryland’s legal cannabis framework.
Conclusion
The arrests of three suspects and the seizure of nearly 65 pounds of marijuana mark one of Baltimore’s largest recent operations targeting illegal cannabis distribution. As the investigation continues, authorities reaffirm that only state-licensed dispensaries can legally sell marijuana products in Maryland.
What are your thoughts on Maryland’s crackdown on unlicensed cannabis sellers? Share your opinions in the comments below.
