Arrested Woman Drug Dealer Links to Kerala Film Industry, Investigation Deepens
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Synopsis
The Kerala State Excise Department has intensified its investigation into the drug mafia's connections within the Malayalam film industry following the arrest of a key figure. The arrested woman, Tasleem Sultana, named prominent actors as clients, prompting further scrutiny and potential notices for questioning.
Key Takeaways
- Tasleem Sultana arrested, exposing drug links.
- Investigation targets Malayalam film industry.
- Prominent actors allegedly involved.
- Seizure of Rs 2 crore worth of ganja.
- Previous legal troubles for Sultana and actors.
Kochi, April 3 (NationPress) Following the arrest of the kingpin, the Kerala State Excise Department has ramped up its investigation into the drug mafia that has reportedly infiltrated the Malayalam film industry. This information emerged from the statements made by the arrested individual.
After an extensive three-month surveillance operation, excise officials apprehended Tasleem Sultana, a significant player in the state's narcotics network.
During questioning, Sultana allegedly disclosed that well-known Malayalam film actors Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi were part of her clientele.
According to Excise Deputy Commissioner S. Vinod Kumar, the investigation has been intensified, and notices may be issued to relevant film personalities to appear for questioning.
The Excise team is currently engaged in recovering vital evidence, including chats and messages exchanged between Sultana and her clients on various social media platforms.
Despite the deletion of data from the mobile phones of the two arrested individuals, the Excise team has sought assistance from scientific experts.
Acting on a tip-off, excise officials detained Sultana and her accomplice at a resort near Alappuzha on Tuesday night.
The operation resulted in the seizure of hybrid ganja valued at approximately Rs 2 crore in the open market.
Sultana, a native of Kannur, primarily operates from Chennai, frequently traveling to Kochi and Alappuzha, which officials believe are key distribution hubs for her operations.
Over the years, she has cultivated strong connections within the Malayalam film industry, leveraging her contacts to secure minor roles in various films.
Proficient in multiple languages, Sultana has also been involved in translating film scripts, which has helped solidify her relationships with industry professionals.
This is not her first encounter with law enforcement.
Sultana has a prior record, having been arrested previously for her involvement in a sex racket.
Actor Shine Tom Chacko has also faced controversy; in 2015, he was arrested along with four models for cocaine possession but was acquitted a decade later due to insufficient evidence.
Meanwhile, Sreenath Bhasi was questioned last year regarding a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) case connected to alleged gangster Om Prakash.
