The Coimbatore Rural Police achieved a significant breakthrough in combating narcotics and illicit alcohol in 2025, attributing their success largely to the innovative 'Smart Khakis' patrolling initiative. The strategy resulted in the seizure of a massive 670 kilograms of drugs and the arrest of hundreds involved in the trade.
'Smart Khakis' Scheme: The Game-Changer in Policing
District Superintendent of Police K Karthikeyan highlighted that the introduction of the 'Smart Khakis' scheme was pivotal. Under this program, police personnel were deployed on a shift-based system to ensure round-the-clock patrolling across the entire rural district. Their mandate included frequent visits to isolated locations and known crime hotspots, creating a visible and effective police presence that acted as a major deterrent.
Record Drug Busts and Alcohol Raids
The data for the year 2025 is staggering. Police registered 464 drug peddling cases, leading to the arrest of 556 individuals. SP Karthikeyan pointed out that the seizure of narcotic substances saw a dramatic increase of 52% compared to previous years, a feat he credited to strict enforcement and special operations.
The crackdown extended to the illegal alcohol trade with equal vigour. The rural police conducted 12,940 raids, registering 3,921 cases. The confiscated items included:
- At least 4,484 litres of illegal liquor
- 8,987 litres
- 5,145 litres of rectified spirit
- 150 litres of fermented wash
Additionally, authorities seized Rs 83,882 in cash and 10 vehicles from the accused.
A Model for Proactive Crime Prevention
SP Karthikeyan emphasized that the measures were part of a broader effort to prevent crimes and maintain robust law and order in the district. The success of 2025 demonstrates that visible and proactive policing, facilitated by schemes like 'Smart Khakis', can yield substantial results. The significant rise in seizures indicates not just reactive action but a successful disruption of supply chains and peddling networks in the Coimbatore rural belt.
