In a major crackdown on New Year's Eve, the Ernakulam Rural Police registered a significant number of cases related to narcotics and traffic violations as part of a special security drive. The operation, aimed at curbing drug abuse and drunken driving during the celebrations, saw extensive deployment of police personnel across the district.
Narcotics and Drunk Driving Crackdown
The police registered eight separate cases under the narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (NDPS) act during the December 31 drive. Simultaneously, a strong focus on road safety led to the booking of 116 individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol. This was despite bars being permitted to operate until midnight for the occasion.
Furthermore, the police took action against public consumption of alcohol, arresting 59 people for drinking in public places. Authorities confirmed that the New Year celebrations across the rural district remained completely peaceful, with major events successfully hosted in Cherai and Malayattoor.
Massive Security Deployment and Surveillance
The extensive security operation was conducted under the direct supervision of District Police Chief M Hemalatha. A force of approximately 1,200 police officers was deployed across the rural district for New Year duties. The strategy included special patrolling teams monitoring police station jurisdictions, with plainclothes officers also mingling in crowds.
All tourist hotspots were placed under constant police surveillance. Special teams were also stationed at district borders to conduct checks. The district police chief personally visited key celebration venues to assess security arrangements on the ground. A 24/7 control room was activated to monitor live CCTV footage streamed from various locations across the district.
Contrasting Scene in Kochi City
Meanwhile, in Kochi city, police reported that apart from a cocaine seizure on Tuesday night, there were no major drug hauls on New Year's Day, Wednesday. In that Tuesday incident, police arrested 49-year-old Diason Joseph with 8.3 grams of cocaine. Investigators are now analyzing his contact list to identify potential customers.
The city police did not immediately release data on traffic violation arrests. Police sources indicated that the bulk of the city's force was deployed in Fort Kochi to manage the enormous influx of revellers. A dedicated contingent of 1,200 policemen, including 13 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 28 inspectors, and 163 sub-inspectors, was pressed into service at Fort Kochi. Officers from neighbouring districts were also called in to assist.
To prevent stampede-like situations that have occurred in previous years, police enforced strict crowd segmentation and control measures. While locations across the city, including malls and public event spaces, witnessed large crowds and packed streets until the early morning hours, no major untoward incidents were reported. The only significant issue reported was traffic snarls due to the sheer density of crowds in areas like Fort Kochi.
