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.
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