Daijiworld Media Network - Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 18: The Kerala government is expanding its anti-drug campaign, Operation Toofan, down to the ward level while establishing a specialized investigation unit to dismantle high-value narcotics networks with inter-state and international connections, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced on Friday.
An Anti-Narcotics Investigation Team has officially commenced operations, headed by Toofan nodal officer and North IG Putt Vimaladitya. The specialized unit comprises three regional bases in Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode. Each unit includes 10 police personnel—featuring a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP), two Circle Inspectors, two Sub-Inspectors, and supporting officers—tasked with making trafficking investigations more scientific, focused, and coordinated against major suppliers.
On the grassroots front, the government is launching Toofan Jana Jagratha Samitis at the ward level in partnership with the Local Self-Government Department. These community committees will incorporate elected representatives, Kudumbashree members, ASHA workers, Haritha Karma Sena, and youth organizations. Chief minister V D Satheesan will inaugurate the state-level rollout at Vengara in Malappuram on September 28, with Industries minister P K Kunhalikutty presiding over the event.
The second phase of the initiative heavily emphasizes demand reduction and rehabilitation alongside supply crackdowns. Under the Toofan Care program, approximately 35 major hospitals have agreed to participate, and a formal rehabilitation protocol is being established with the Indian Medical Association (IMA). Furthermore, a dedicated Toofan app, developed with technical support from Amrita University's IT division, is being launched to allow individuals struggling with substance abuse to seek confidential assistance.
According to government assessments, Operation Toofan has successfully reduced drug supplies into Kerala by 20 to 30 percent, shifting focus from street-level distributors to primary sources and financial backers supporting the illegal trade.