SOUTH CAROLINA — A drug trafficking investigation in South Carolina focused on THC products openly sold in stores has led to the arrest of 12 people and the filing of 40 narcotics-related charges, according to the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office.
The operation, known as “Ganjapreneur,” targeted distributors and wholesalers of certain THC products in Richland and Lexington counties.
Authorities said the products, despite their packaging and marketing, tested illegal under state law, were highly intoxicating, and were often packaged in ways that appealed to children and teenagers.
“A stand needed to be made against stores openly selling illegal THC products, many of which are dangerously potent and clearly marketed to attract children and teens,” Attorney General Alan Wilson said.
On Dec. 9, 2025, law enforcement agencies conducted a coordinated operation executing search and seizure warrants at multiple locations and serving arrest warrants on individuals indicted by the State Grand Jury. The investigation resulted in the arrest of 12 defendants, who authorities allege were wholesale distributors supplying large quantities of illegal THC products to retail establishments across the state.
During the operation, investigators searched six warehouses, six residences, one retail business, and two storage units. Officials said approximately eight 26-foot box trucks filled with illegal products were seized, totaling more than 30,000 pounds, or about 15 tons.
Seized items included marijuana, pre-rolled marijuana cigarettes, vapes, oils, dabs, syrups, and edible products. Authorities also seized proceeds and assets linked to the alleged illegal enterprises, totaling approximately $2 million. More than 30 county and local agencies carried out simultaneous enforcement actions statewide.
State Grand Jury Chief Attorney Creighton Waters praised the collaboration among agencies, calling the case an example of effective multi-jurisdictional cooperation. South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel said the operation sends a clear message.
“These suppliers sought to peddle these products to anyone who would buy them. In turn, they were directly profiting off the backs of our children. It is unconscionable,” Keel said.
The Attorney General’s Office said those charged include Shazan Ghani, Zeeshan Ghani, Zanira Safri, Rizwan Rashyani, Bhavik Patel, Fadi Muneer Zuhour, Mohamed A. Isa, Muhammad Usman Butt, Ahad Shafiq, and Asim Pervaiz.
