Thiruvananthapuram, 02 June (H.S.) :
Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Tuesday issued a stern warning to drug traffickers and users across the state, declaring that the government would intensify its fight against narcotics through a new statewide anti-drug initiative titled “Operation Thufan.”
Speaking at the launch of the operation, Chennithala said no individual would be beyond the reach of the law and cautioned against any assumption that wealth, status, or influence could shield offenders from police action.
“Those involved in the drug trade should understand that it is in their best interest to stop today itself. The police will not hesitate to act against anyone, irrespective of their social standing, financial power, or position,” he said.
The Home Minister specifically warned that luxury caravans, high-end venues, and exclusive gatherings would not be exempt from scrutiny. “Nobody should believe that police will refrain from inspecting caravans or other private spaces. Law enforcement will function strictly according to the law, without considering status, money, or influence,” he added.
Chennithala also revealed that the state’s cyber intelligence units had been directed to track digital footprints linked to narcotics trafficking conducted through the dark web and other online platforms. He said special instructions had been issued to cyber cells to identify and dismantle digital networks facilitating drug distribution.
Expressing concern over the increasing use of narcotics at high-profile social events, the minister said drug consumption at five-star hotels and DJ parties must come to an end. Organisers of such events, he noted, must ensure that their gatherings are not being used as channels for drug distribution or abuse.
“If these events become hubs for narcotics use or supply, the long arm of the law will reach there as well,” he warned.
Highlighting the wider dimensions of the drug menace, Chennithala said narcotics networks often maintain interstate connections and that Kerala Police had already initiated extensive measures to identify and dismantle such operations. He said drug hubs across the state would be systematically targeted and those responsible brought before the law.
Describing Operation Thufan as a people-centric campaign, Chennithala said the initiative was aimed at protecting students, teachers, families, and the younger generation from the growing threat of substance abuse.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan formally inaugurated the programme. Ministers N. Shamsudheen, M. Liju and C.P. John, along with MP Shashi Tharoor, attended the event. IG Puttavimaladitya has been appointed as the nodal officer for Operation Thufan.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
