Thiruvananthapuram, July 31 (HS): The Kerala Police and the State Prison Department on Friday conducted coordinated searches in central prisons across the state under Operation Toofan, a statewide anti-narcotics drive aimed at preventing the smuggling and circulation of drugs and other prohibited items inside prisons.

The searches were carried out simultaneously in central prisons by joint teams comprising police and prison officials. The operation focused on detecting narcotic substances, mobile phones and other banned articles, besides preventing criminal activities being carried out from inside correctional facilities.

Officials said the exercise forms part of the state's intensified campaign against narcotics and organised crime. Prison barracks and other premises were thoroughly inspected during the operation.

The authorities said appropriate legal and departmental action would be taken based on the outcome of the searches.

Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar