2 arrested, 1 needed in Laurinburg unlawful gaming operation

SCOTLAND COUNTY, N.C. (WPDE) — Two males have been arrested, and one is needed after an investigation into video gaming machine operations carried out by the Laurinburg Police Department in partnership with the Alcohol Law Enforcement Division, based on The City of Laurinburg.

Three search warrants have been executed on Friday in relation to the incident, the primary one being at a smoke store at 101 North Man Street. At this location, Arafat Abuhammoud was arrested and charged with felony-operating a video gaming machine (second offense), playing, possessing/working a slot machine, and manufacturing/promoting slot machine.

The second and third warrants have been carried out on the Laurinburg Food Market and Laurinburg Laundry Xpress, each positioned on Produce Market Road. Amran Hussein was arrested and charged with felony- working a video gaming machine, felony conspiracy, playing, possessing/working a slot machine, manufacturing/promoting slot machine, and permitting conduct on licensed premises.

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Following the issuance of extra search warrants, police at the moment are searching for a 3rd suspect, Waddah Ashif. He is needed on related fees associated to this incident.

Abuhammoud is being held on the Scotland County Detention Center, awaiting bond pending immigration standing affirmation. Hussein can also be being held right here on a $4,000 bond.

Overall, the investigation led to the seizure of huge sums of U.S. foreign money, firearms and video gaming machine motherboards, officers mentioned.

The Laurinburg Police situation a reminder for people working gaming machines to remain compliant with the state’s legal guidelines, as listed within the North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 14, Article 37.