Kerala's Operation Toofan: Over Rs 10 Crore in Illegal Narcotics Seized, 2,778 Arrested
The Kerala government's 'Operation Toofan' has successfully seized illegal narcotics and tobacco products worth over Rs 10 crore. During the first 15 days of this multi-agency anti-drug campaign, 2,778 individuals were arrested, marking a major effort to dismantle drug trafficking networks across the state.
Highlights
- •Operation Toofan has resulted in 2,778 arrests within the first 15 days of the crackdown.
- •Illegal narcotics and tobacco products worth over Rs 10 crore have been seized across Kerala.
- •The initiative features a multi-agency approach involving both state and central government departments.
- •Authorities are implementing advanced technological tools to target trafficking routes and major suppliers.
In a significant crackdown on illegal substance trafficking, Kerala has launched an intensive state-wide initiative dubbed Operation Toofan. During the initial 15-day period of this campaign, authorities have successfully confiscated a massive haul of narcotic substances and illicit tobacco products, with an estimated international market valuation exceeding Rs 10 crore. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala confirmed on Tuesday that the operation has already led to the arrests of 2,778 individuals across the state.
Strengthening Enforcement Against Narcotics
The anti-drug campaign involves a collaborative effort between the Kerala Police and the Excise Department, receiving critical support from various government sectors including Health and Education. Officials have registered 2,575 cases during this initial phase. The seized items encompass a variety of banned substances, such as MDMA, ganja, hashish oil, brown sugar, LSD stamps, and significant quantities of banned tobacco products. Of the total cases filed, 838 are classified as small quantity offenses, 78 as medium, and 24 as commercial quantity seizures.
Minister Ramesh Chennithala addressed the media following an inter-agency coordination session held at the police headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. The meeting included high-level representatives from central agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Railway Protection Force (RPF), Central Narcotics Bureau, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Customs, Court Guard, and Marine Enforcement. This high level of inter-agency cooperation is central to the strategy of Operation Toofan, which aims to dismantle entrenched trafficking networks.
Future Strategic Initiatives
According to the Home Minister, investigative teams have already identified specific supply routes and primary sources of the narcotics entering the state. The ongoing Operation Toofan is expected to lead authorities to key suppliers behind the trafficking operations soon. Furthermore, the government intends to utilize advanced scientific and technological tools to bolster enforcement efficacy. A future multi-agency digital integrated project is currently in the planning stages to standardize and optimize anti-drug measures through a more scientific approach.
To further amplify the message, renowned actor Mohanlal has officially joined the campaign as part of the Toofan Warriors initiative. State authorities maintain that the crackdown is set to continue indefinitely until the roots of the drug mafia are thoroughly eradicated, ultimately aiming to free Kerala from the escalating threat of substance abuse. The UDF government initiated this comprehensive drive immediately upon assuming office, emphasizing a commitment to public safety through coordinated intelligence-sharing and active community participation.
