Thiruvananthapuram, May 30: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has launched a robust anti-drug operation in Kerala. During this initiative, authorities seized over 24 kilograms of narcotics and psychotropic substances across the state.
Under ‘Operation Chakravyuh’, the DRI’s Kochi unit conducted coordinated raids in Kochi, Malappuram, and Thiruvananthapuram, confiscating significant quantities of methaqualone, methamphetamine, and hashish oil.
Five individuals, allegedly linked to a smuggling network under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, have been arrested.
According to the DRI, the trafficking of these restricted substances was facilitated through various channels, including passenger luggage, courier shipments, and export cargo, highlighting the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by drug traffickers.
This recent crackdown coincides with the Kerala government’s renewed commitment to combat drug abuse and substance addiction.
During the opening of the assembly session on Friday, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar announced a comprehensive restructuring of the Excise Department in his policy speech. The government aims to transform the department into a technology-enabled, intelligence-driven agency focused on dismantling organized drug networks and protecting vulnerable segments of society.
The government stated that the modernized Excise Department will be equipped with digital surveillance tools, cyber monitoring systems, and a robust intelligence network to identify and disrupt drug supply chains.
A statewide anti-drug campaign involving the Excise, Home, Health, and Education Departments will commence in June, coinciding with the start of the new academic year. This initiative will particularly focus on protecting children and youth from substance abuse.
The state’s anti-drug strategy will be based on three pillars: stringent action against traffickers and suppliers, continuous awareness campaigns to reduce demand, and a rehabilitation-centered public health approach for those affected by addiction.
Additionally, the government has announced a zero-tolerance policy towards drug mafias and organized criminal networks.
The DRI reported that its Kochi regional unit seized narcotics and psychotropic substances worth ₹70.76 crores in the previous financial year and arrested 21 individuals in various NDPS cases.
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