In coordinated anti-narcotics operations recently carried out by the Kochi unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), substantial quantities of drugs and psychotropic substances were seized from various locations across the state under Operation Chakravyuh. According to an official statement issued by the Press Information Bureau, contraband including methaqualone, methamphetamine, and hashish oil, intended for illicit distribution and trafficking, were among the seized items. The drugs were seized from Kochi, Malappuram, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Details of Seizures and Arrests
“A total of over 24 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances has been seized in these operations. Five individuals, including key operatives involved in the trafficking networks, have been apprehended under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act,” DRI said. The contraband was detected in different modes of smuggling, including passenger baggage at the airport, concealed in courier consignments, and outbound export cargo.
Key Cases Under Operation Chakravyuh
The cases include the arrest of two Andhra Pradesh natives with 3.5 kg of methaqualone at Kochi airport. The passengers, who arrived from Bangkok, Thailand, were intercepted based on specific intelligence. They arrived on a Thai Lion Air flight from Bangkok around 1 am on Monday. The officers proceeded to inspect their baggage and belongings when the contraband was found concealed in two bags. The drug, a highly addictive sedative, was in the shape of soap bars.
The statement said that the seizures were part of DRI’s drive against drug trafficking networks operating through international and domestic channels. During the last financial year, the DRI Kochi unit had seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances valued at approximately Rs 70.76 crore in Kerala and arrested 21 persons in connection with various NDPS cases, said the statement.
Broader Implications
These operations highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb drug trafficking in the region. The DRI continues to monitor and intercept illegal drug shipments through various routes, including airports, courier services, and cargo exports. The successful seizures under Operation Chakravyuh demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-based operations in dismantling trafficking networks.
