Kerala Police arrested a third woman teacher on Tuesday, 28 July in the expanding Vadakara MDMA racket, with the detention of Nishma, a trainer at the Perambra Block Resource Centre (BRC) in Kozhikode, deepening suspicions of a well-organised narcotics distribution network that allegedly used QR code payments, social media, and Google Maps drop locations to evade direct contact with buyers.

The Three Accused and Their Alleged Roles

Nishma's arrest follows the earlier detention of K.C. Keerthana of Maruthonkara and Kavya of Koorachundu by the Vadakara Police. Investigators said the three were frequently seen together, indicating close operational coordination. An examination of Nishma's bank accounts reportedly revealed multiple money transfers, strengthening suspicions that she managed a significant portion of the network's financial transactions.

Notably, police confirmed that all three accused were not only distributing MDMA but were also consuming the drug themselves — a detail that adds a further dimension to the investigation.

How the Network Allegedly Operated

According to investigators, the accused used social media platforms to coordinate with customers. Buyers reportedly transferred payments via QR codes to the accused, who then shared a Google Maps location identifying a concealment spot where the MDMA could be collected — a method designed to eliminate direct contact between seller and buyer. Police are now scrutinising digital payment records to trace additional members of the network and identify those who received funds through these transactions.

The Anti-Drug Awareness Paradox

The case has triggered serious concern within Kerala's education community. All three arrested teachers had reportedly participated in anti-drug awareness campaigns conducted in schools and public institutions — making their alleged involvement in a drug racket a stark contradiction that investigators and officials are grappling with. The revelation has prompted questions about screening and accountability within the state's education and outreach infrastructure.

Operation Toofan and the Broader Probe

The case surfaced during 'Operation Toofan', a dedicated anti-narcotics drive led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, following the initial arrest of two alleged drug peddlers found in possession of MDMA. A forensic analysis of financial transaction records reportedly led investigators to the three teachers. A 10-member police team has since been constituted to trace remaining members of the suspected network, with investigators examining whether additional teachers or other individuals were involved in the trade.

Police are expected to seek extended custody of all three accused to identify suppliers, financiers, delivery agents, and other potential co-conspirators. The probe is ongoing, and further arrests are considered likely as digital payment trails continue to be analysed.