Trio arrested in connection to lengthy drug investigation in Kent Co.

KENT CO., Del. – Three people have been arrested following a several months-long drug investigation in Kent County.

The investigation began in November 2023 into the Ali Baba Smoke Sho and Ali Baba 2 Smoke Shop, both in Dover, and Liberty Happy Gas Station in Magnolia for the suspected large-scale distribution of drugs.

Through the investigation, police identified three suspects, 19-year-old Algahgaa Ata, 23-year-old Maddyan Ata, and 52-year-old Khaled Ata, and obtained warrants for their arrests.

On Tuesday, police conducted a traffic stop near Magnolia, during which Maddyan Ata was arrested. Detectives found a loaded handgun, approximately 17 grams of marijuana, and $5,915 in suspected drug money inside the vehicle.

That same day, detectives executed search warrants at the businesses and a residence on Ponderosa Drive in Magnolia. This search led to the recovery of approximately 1025.32 grams of marijuana and THC products, two handguns and ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and $158,523 in suspected drug money. Algahgaa and Khaled were arrested during this search.

All were released on various bonds after being charged with numerous drug and weapons charges.