Kerala, 21 August (H.S.):Kerala's Home Department has intensified its crackdown on narcotics and organised crime, with more than 10,000 people arrested under Operation Toofan, the Statewide anti-drug campaign.

Police said enforcement teams had seized 8.28 kg of MDMA and nearly 1,000 kg of cannabis during the operation. Investigations indicate much of the MDMA entering Kerala is sourced from Bengaluru, Delhi and Goa.

The major players in supplying synthetic drugs and transporting cannabis into Kerala are believed to be operating from outside the State. Police are attempting to identify and dismantle these interstate networks by tracing their suppliers, transporters and local distribution channels.

However, a majority of those arrested under Operation Toofan are small-scale peddlers or drug users. This has prompted investigators to widen the probe and focus on the key figures controlling and financing the narcotics trade.

The government has also stepped up action against gangsters and habitual offenders through Operation Grip, which was launched to suppress organised criminal activities across Kerala.

As many as 158 people, including absconding accused and wanted criminals, have been arrested under the drive. Police have also invoked the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, commonly known as KAAPA, against 20 people.

Those jailed as part of the operation include alleged gangsters Maradu Aneesh and Arjun Ayanki. Police said the action was aimed at preventing criminal groups from regrouping and engaging in violent or unlawful activities.

Under Operation Grip, 10,519 people with suspected criminal links have been placed under strict police surveillance. Their movements and activities are being monitored by local police units.

The Home Department has made it clear that there will be no compromise in the fight against drugs and organised crime. Both operations will continue, with greater emphasis on intelligence gathering, interstate coordination and action against the principal figures behind drug trafficking and criminal networks.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman