The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized more than 24 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances across Kerala under Operation Chakravyuh, in one of the state's most significant anti-narcotics crackdowns in recent months. Five persons, including individuals allegedly linked to organised trafficking networks, were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Key Seizures and Arrests

The DRI's Cochin Unit conducted coordinated operations at Kochi, Malappuram, and Thiruvananthapuram, recovering substantial quantities of methaqualone, methamphetamine, and hashish oil. According to the DRI, the contraband was being smuggled through multiple channels — passenger baggage, courier consignments, and outbound export cargo — pointing to increasingly sophisticated trafficking methods.

Scale of the Problem

The DRI's Cochin Zonal Unit had already seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances worth ₹70.76 crore in Kerala during the last financial year, arresting 21 persons in various NDPS cases. The latest operation adds to that tally and, according to officials, reaffirms the need for coordinated action between central and state agencies.

Kerala Government's Anti-Drug Strategy

The bust coincides with a broader policy shift in Kerala. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in his policy address at the opening of the Assembly session, announced a comprehensive overhaul of the state's Excise Department — transforming it into a technology-enabled, intelligence-driven agency. The revamped department will be equipped with digital surveillance tools, cyber-monitoring systems, and specialised enforcement capabilities to identify and disrupt narcotics supply chains.

The government has also declared a zero-tolerance policy towards narcotic mafias and organised criminal networks, with a statewide anti-drug mission involving the Excise, Home, Health, and Education departments set to launch at the start of the new academic year in June.

Three-Pillar Approach

Kerala's anti-drug strategy rests on three pillars: strong enforcement against traffickers and suppliers; sustained awareness campaigns to reduce demand; and a rehabilitation-focused public health approach for those affected by addiction. A special focus has been placed on protecting children and youth, with the inter-departmental mission timed to coincide with the academic year to reach students early.

What Comes Next

Officials say the Operation Chakravyuh seizures are unlikely to be the last. As traffickers adapt — using export cargo and courier networks to move contraband — investigators are pressing for deeper inter-agency coordination. The effectiveness of Kerala's new enforcement architecture will be tested as the state enters what authorities describe as a critical phase in its fight against organised drug networks.