Kerala: Major drug bust highlights anti-narcotics push
Thiruvananthapuram, May 30
A major anti-narcotics operation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence that led to the seizure of more than 24 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances across Kerala has underscored the scale of the drug menace confronting the state.
Under 'Operation Chakravyuh', the DRI's Cochin Unit seized substantial quantities of methaqualone, methamphetamine, and hashish oil in coordinated operations at Kochi, Malappuram, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Five persons, including key operatives allegedly linked to trafficking networks, were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
According to the DRI, the contraband was being smuggled through multiple channels, including passenger baggage, courier consignments, and outbound export cargo, highlighting the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by drug traffickers.
The latest crackdown comes at a time when the Kerala government has declared a renewed war against narcotics and substance abuse.
In the policy address delivered by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar at the opening of the Assembly session on Friday, the government announced a comprehensive overhaul of the Excise Department, transforming it into a technology-enabled, intelligence-driven agency focused on dismantling organised drug networks and protecting vulnerable sections of society.
The government said the modernised Excise Department would be equipped with digital surveillance tools, cyber-monitoring systems, strengthened intelligence networks, and specialised enforcement capabilities to identify and disrupt narcotics supply chains.
A statewide anti-drug mission involving the Excise, Home, Health, and Education departments will be launched with the start of the new academic year in June, with a special focus on protecting children and youth from substance abuse.
The state's anti-drug strategy will rest on three pillars: strong enforcement against traffickers and suppliers, sustained awareness campaigns to reduce demand, and a rehabilitation-focused public health approach for those affected by addiction.
The government has also announced a zero-tolerance policy towards narcotic mafias and organised criminal networks.
The DRI said its Cochin Zonal Unit seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances worth Rs 70.76 crore in Kerala during the last financial year and arrested 21 persons in various NDPS cases.
Officials said the latest seizures reaffirm the need for coordinated action by central and state agencies as Kerala intensifies its fight against drugs.
— IANS
Reader Comments
24 kg is just the tip of the iceberg. The real challenge is the supply chain that runs through our ports and airports. Technology-enabled Excise Department sounds good, but we need more boots on the ground too.
Impressive operation. But the real question is: where are these drugs coming from? If we don't cut off the international supply lines, local seizures are just a whack-a-mole game.
Great to see the focus on awareness and rehabilitation too. Growing up in Kerala, I've seen too many bright futures ruined by substance abuse. The three-pillar approach is exactly what we need. Let's hope implementation matches intent.
As a parent, this is terrifying and reassuring at the same time. The fact that these drugs are coming through passenger baggage and couriers means anyone could be targeted. But the anti-drug mission starting this academic year gives me some hope.
Rs 70 crore seized last year, and now this. Good work DRI! But one concern - will the reformed Excise Department focus only on high-profile cases or also go after the local peddlers who are the ones actually reaching our kids?
The 'zero tolerance' rhetoric is good but
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