Pubdate: Fri, 17 Dec 1999 Source: San Francisco Chronicle (CA) Copyright: 1999 San Francisco Chronicle Contact: http://www.sfgate.com/chronicle/ Forum: http://www.sfgate.com/conferences/ COPS SEIZE KHAT PLANTS -- 2 ARRESTED AT HOME San Leandro -- Two men were arrested after detectives seized 242 illegal khat plants in the backyard of their home, police said yesterday. The African shrub-like plant, which acts as a narcotic when chewed, was discovered after police received a tip that followed a separate October seizure of khat, authorities said. Allawe Hassan, 41, and Besserey Hassan, 23, were arrested at the home on Joaquin Avenue on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance for sale. They are being held at San Leandro City Jail in lieu of $20,000 bail each. Police said the suspects grew the plants, which weighed 361 pounds, in the backyard of their home. Officers also seized a .32- caliber revolver and $2,500 in cash. - --- MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk