Alabama Officials Warn Against Illegal Kratom Products in Stores State leaders and law enforcement in Alabama are alerting the public to the presence of illegal kratom products disguised as safe beverages or supplements in local stores. Following recent tragedies linked to kratom use, officials have ramped up efforts to seize these dangerous substances and prosecute retailers violating drug control laws, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious items. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Alabama state leaders and law enforcement officials are issuing an urgent warning to parents, young adults, and consumers across Alabama regarding the dangers of illegal kratom products found on convenience store and vape shop shelves. Despite kratom being classified as a controlled substance under Alabama law, investigators said manufacturers and retailers are disguising the substance as harmless beverages, energy shots, or mood-boosting supplements.Illegal Kratom Disguised as Harmless Products"Kratom is illegal in Alabama, but unfortunately, it is not that plain and simple. Our law enforcement folks continue identifying stores putting this illegal product on their shelves disguised as harmless drinks," Gov. Kay Ivey said."Y'all, please just be aware: Just because it is sold on a gas station shelf, does not always mean it is safe. " Gov. Ivey's warning comes just days after two Ole Miss students were found dead. Investigators in Mississippi said Kratom was found at both scenes.The crackdown intensified earlier this year when the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), alongside the Alabama Attorney General's Office, launched Operation Southern Shield in May following undercover purchases and forensic lab testing. The multi-agency operation resulted in 83 search warrants and the seizure of nearly 123,000 doses of illegal kratom products statewide. Laboratory analysis conducted by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences (ADFS) confirmed multiple retail products contained mitragynine, the active compound in kratom.Follow-Up Seizures Across AlabamaSpecial agents have continued to seize hundreds of bottles in follow-up operations across Alabama."Something being sold over the counter at a gas station or vape shop should not automatically be considered safe," said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. "Education and awareness are critical as we continue working with our partners to identify these products and remove illegal substances from Alabama communities. " Officials expressed particular concern over how accessible these products are to teenagers and college students.Because packaging often promotes relaxation, energy, or focus without clearly disclosing that the contents are controlled and potentially addictive, consumers may have no idea what they are ingesting. ALEA also warned that combining kratom with alcohol or other substances sharply increases the risk of dangerous, unpredictable side effects. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall warned retailers that law enforcement will pursue strict criminal and civil penalties against any store continuing to stock these items.Health Risks and Retailer Penalties"Alabama is not open for business to anyone selling these dangerous and illegal substances, however they're labeled or packaged," Marshall said. "Retailers had every opportunity to comply, and those who ignored the law will now face serious consequences. Anyone who continues to sell these products will face the full force of the law, including seizure of assets and felony prosecution." State authorities urge parents and guardians to discuss the risks with young people and remind them that unregulated, over-the-counter products can carry hidden dangers. Anyone who encounters products suspected of containing kratom or other illegal controlled substances is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or submit a report through the Alabama Attorney General's Office website.