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Fairfax County police seized more than $2 million worth of narcotics after investigators linked 13 local vape shops to what authorities described as a regional drug trafficking operation.
Detectives executed search warrants March 18 at the 13 stores, two storage units, a warehouse and a vehicle. Police said the investigation began in 2024.
The raids recovered hundreds of pounds of marijuana, roughly 40 pounds of suspected mushroom-infused gummies, unidentified pills and other items, according to the Fairfax County Police Department.
Three Woodbridge residents were arrested: Omar Salim, 65; Saleh Salim, 36; and Saed Salim, 39. Each faces felony charges of conspiracy to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Police Chief Kevin Davis said undercover officers had purchased marijuana from tobacco and vape shops. He also alleged that young customers could enter such stores without concealing their identities or ages and buy marijuana.
Virginia legalized possession of up to one ounce of marijuana for adults 21 and older in July 2021, becoming the first Southern state to do so. Retail sales remain illegal.
The General Assembly sent Gov. Abigail Spanberger legislation this year that would permit retail marijuana sales beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
Online court records show the three defendants are scheduled for preliminary hearings in Fairfax County General District Court in June. Each could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted under state law.