Updated Jan. 14 at 12:05 p.m.
Two Lumberton men were jailed after multiple complaints from citizens led to an illegal gambling operation with a dead raccoon in a store freezer.
The sheriff’s office said in a press release that Ali Shoqi Saleh, 35, and Ali Ahmed Hamdi Saleh, 46, were arrested on felonious operation of five or more gambling machines; operating and possessing slot machines and video gaming machines; and electronic sweepstakes. Hamdi Saleh was also charged with gambling. Both were released on $5,000 secured bond.
Sheriff Bill Rogers said investigators with the Special Operations/Vice-Narcotics unit initiated an undercover operation at the Shop and Save in Nakina after multiple complaints of suspicious activity at the store.
“Detectives responded by conducting undercover operations and surveillance over several weeks, gathering evidence that supported the search warrant application,” the press release said.
They raided the business at 7824 Seven Creeks Highway Jan. 8.
Deputies found multiple gaming machines as well as a dead raccoon in one of the walk-in coolers, the release said. County Environmental Health was called to investigate the raccoon.
The investigation remains active, Rogers said, and detectives will continue pursuing leads related to illegal gaming operations throughout Columbus County. He praised the citizens who contacted the sheriff’s office with their concerns.
“This case is a direct result of citizens stepping forward and sharing their concerns,” Rogers said. “Our detectives dedicated countless hours to undercover work and surveillance to build a strong, safe case. When our community submit tips, we listen, investigate thoroughly, and take action. Partnerships like this make our county safer for everyone.”
Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Submit-A-Tip portal at: https://columbussheriff.com/submit-a-tip . Download the sheriff’s office app for free on your iPhone or Android device.
