Kochi Police Apprehends Key Drug Peddler and Woman in Separate Narcotics Operations
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Kochi city police on Tuesday arrested two individuals in separate narcotics cases, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat the spread of lethal substances in the region.
Arrest of Key Methamphetamine Network Figure
The police successfully apprehended Akhilnas Latheef, a 29-year-old resident of Palluruthy, who had been absconding since being implicated in a drug case. Latheef was wanted in connection with a case registered at the Palluruthy police station, which stemmed from the seizure of 23.30 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride on Arpan Road in August 2025.
According to police officials, Latheef played a pivotal role in a network that distributed this dangerous drug to young people, posing a severe threat to public health and safety. Following his arrest, he was presented in court and remanded into custody, marking a crucial step in dismantling this illicit operation.
The arrest was executed by a dedicated police team led by Inspector Kiran C Nair. The team included Sub-Inspector Unnikrishnan C T, Assistant Sub-Inspector Sahish Kumar, and civil police officers Bibin K S, Aneesh, Suresh C V, Joyet, and Shruti, showcasing coordinated law enforcement efforts.
Woman Arrested with Brown Sugar and Ganja
In a separate operation on the same day, the District Anti-Narcotic Special Action Force, in collaboration with the Thrikkakara police, arrested a 20-year-old woman from Assam. Lucky Beegum, a native of Barpeda, was taken into custody from a rented house in Vazhakkala.
Beegum was found in possession of 2.115 kilograms of ganja and 12 grams of brown sugar. The arrest was made based on confidential information received by City Police Commissioner Kaliraj Maheshkumar, underscoring the importance of intelligence-led policing in tackling drug crimes.
She has been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, as confirmed by police authorities. This case adds to the growing list of narcotics-related arrests in Kochi, reflecting the city's proactive stance against drug abuse and trafficking.
Broader Implications and Police Strategy
These arrests highlight the Kochi police's intensified focus on curbing drug peddling networks that target vulnerable populations, particularly youth. The seizures of methamphetamine, ganja, and brown sugar indicate the diverse range of substances being trafficked in the area.
Police officials emphasized that such operations are part of a larger strategy to disrupt supply chains and apprehend key individuals involved in the drug trade. The involvement of multiple police units, including special action forces, demonstrates a multi-pronged approach to law enforcement.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug distribution, reinforcing community cooperation in the fight against narcotics. These cases serve as a stern warning to those engaged in illegal drug activities in Kochi and surrounding regions.
