Operation Toofan, the statewide initiative launched by the Kerala Police to combat drug trafficking and substance abuse, has resulted in the arrest of over 15,700 individuals since its inception five months ago. Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced the latest figures during a public event in Wayanad on Monday, November 9, 2026, where he laid the foundation stones for a new police station and fire station in Mananthavady.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Chennithala provided an update on the progress of the campaign, emphasizing the government's resolve to continue the operation until drug syndicates are entirely dismantled. According to the Minister, the police have registered more than 13,500 cases as part of this intensive crackdown. Furthermore, narcotic substances estimated to be worth ₹200 crore that were being smuggled into the state have been seized and subsequently destroyed.
The administrative response to the drug menace has been firm, with authorities utilizing stringent legal frameworks to curb the activities of repeat offenders. As many as 60 individuals identified as being involved in persistent illegal activities have been brought under the scope of the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, commonly known as KAAPA. Additionally, more than 45 individuals have been placed under preventive detention to maintain law and order, the Minister said.
Highlighting the strategic approach of the operation, Mr. Chennithala noted that the police force has been directed to bolster vigilance along the state's borders. Given that Wayanad shares boundaries with Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the Minister confirmed that the Kerala Police are coordinating closely with their counterparts in these neighboring states to intercept drug supply chains effectively. This inter-state cooperation is considered a critical component of the ongoing effort to prevent the transit of illegal contraband.
During his address, the Home Minister lauded the performance of the Kerala Police, describing the state force as a model for law enforcement agencies across the country. He credited the police with delivering exceptional results in safeguarding both lives and property. Mr. Chennithala reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the infrastructure of police and fire and rescue services to ensure they remain well-equipped to handle evolving security challenges.
The new projects in Mananthavady reflect this commitment to infrastructure development. The proposed police station is set to be constructed at a cost of ₹2.7 crore, while the new fire station building is estimated to cost ₹3.12 crore. The event was attended by Agriculture Minister T. Siddique, along with MLAs Usha Vijayan and I.C. Balakrishnan, who joined in the proceedings to mark the commencement of the new facilities.
Looking ahead, the administration has indicated that there will be no slackening in the intensity of Operation Toofan. By focusing on both the immediate arrest of peddlers and the systemic detention of high-risk individuals, the government aims to suppress the influence of the drug mafia within the state. As the campaign reaches its fifth month, officials continue to stress that public safety remains the priority, with continued surveillance and enforcement activities expected to remain the focus of the police department in the coming months.
Comments