ANNISTON, AL — The Anniston Police Department assisted multiple law enforcement agencies Wednesday, June 17, in the execution of search warrants at two Anniston locations as part of an ongoing statewide investigation known as Operation Southern Shield.
According to officials, the Anniston Police Department worked alongside agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the 7th Judicial Major Crimes Unit, and the Calhoun County District Attorney’s Office to execute a search warrant at a convenience store located in the 3000 block of U.S. Highway 78.
Authorities said the warrant stemmed from an investigation into products believed to contain kratom, a substance that has been illegal in Alabama since 2016. Operation Southern Shield is a statewide initiative focused on identifying and removing illegal products being sold throughout Alabama.
During the search of the convenience store, ALEA agents seized the following items:
- 88 bottles of Mind Lift
- 24 bottles of Groovy Brew
- 34 bottles of Good Day
- 1 bottle of Wava Kava
- 45 bottles of Xuno, totaling 225 doses
Investigators later determined the products were supplied by a distribution facility located in the 2000 block of Coleman Road in Anniston. A second search warrant was obtained and executed at that location.
During the second search, authorities seized an additional 2,289 bottles of Xuno, totaling 11,445 doses, which investigators believe contain kratom.
Law enforcement officials stated that Operation Southern Shield is a coordinated effort involving state and local agencies aimed at removing illegal and potentially dangerous products from Alabama communities. Officials also reminded businesses that products containing kratom are prohibited under Alabama law and should not be offered for sale.
The Anniston Police Department said its primary concern is public safety and noted that products marketed as safe or harmless while containing illegal substances can pose risks to consumers.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information regarding the sale of illegal products is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement agency.
