Branford Clerk Posts Bond After Police Seize Pounds of Illegal Cannabis
Authorities labeled the unlicensed convenience store a drug factory after finding edibles, concentrates, and a BB gun during a fifth inspection.
By Anthony Shevchenko ·
Branford police arrested Salah Kannane, 33, on Saturday after seizing several pounds of illegal cannabis products from the SAS Convenience Store on East Main Street. The store, formerly known as ASA Smoke Shop, is not licensed by the State of Connecticut to sell marijuana or related products. Kannane posted a $50,000 bond and was released from custody.
Officers conducted a comprehensive inspection of the shop following a report from a resident who alleged that minors were purchasing marijuana items from the establishment. Detectives from the Branford Police Department worked alongside agents from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection's Cannabis Control Division during the search.
Investigators recovered 1.5125 pounds of cannabis edibles, 4.2125 pounds of concentrates and vape products, and 1.078 pounds of cannabis flower. The edibles consisted of 17 containers holding 100 mg of THC, 12 containers with 200 mg, and 8 containers containing 1,000 mg. The concentrates and vape products amounted to 155 individual units, while the flower was stored in 91 containers. Two packages of Kratom, a Schedule I controlled substance, were also found.
Police noted that the operation included digital scales and packaging materials. They described the setup as a drug factory based on the quantity and variety of goods. A BB gun was found on the premises, which police said resembled a fully functional handgun. This is the second time such a weapon has been discovered at the location.
Kannane faces charges for possession and sale of a controlled substance, operating a drug factory, and three counts of selling cannabis. Police stated that this is the fifth time illegal cannabis sales have been identified at this specific address. Previous arrests have involved other clerks and the proprietor in connection with illegal drug sales.
The department said it frequently receives tips after parents discover cannabis products in their children's possessions following purchases at the store. The inspection revealed a substantial volume of items being sold without state authorization. The seized inventory includes specific weights and container counts for each product type.
The store remains unlicensed for cannabis sales. The presence of the BB gun and the weighing equipment supported the charge of operating a drug factory. Kannane is from Branford. The investigation was triggered by the report of minors buying products at the shop.
