Overview
The DRI intensified its anti‑narcotics drive in Kerala under Operation Chakravyuh. In a series of raids across Kochi, Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram, authorities seized more than 24 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and arrested five key operatives.
Key Developments
- Seizure of 24 kg of narcotics, including methamphetamine, methaqualone and hashish oil.
- Arrest of five individuals, including senior operatives of the trafficking network, under the provisions of the NDPS Act.
- Contraband was uncovered in multiple smuggling modes: passenger baggage at the airport, concealed in courier consignments, and hidden in outbound export cargo.
Important Facts
- During the last financial year, the Cochin Zonal Unit of DRI seized narcotics worth approximately Rs 70.76 crore in Kerala and arrested 21 persons in various NDPS cases.
- The operation underscores DRI’s focus on both international and domestic trafficking channels.
- The agency reiterated its commitment to the government’s vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the role of agencies like the DRI is essential for GS 2 (Polity) and GS 3 (Security) topics. The NDPS Act is a key piece of legislation examined in law‑related questions. Data on drug seizures and arrests illustrate the scale of the illicit drug market, linking to GS 3 (Economy) and GS 4 (Ethics) discussions on public health and governance.
Way Forward
- Strengthen inter‑agency coordination between customs, police, and intelligence units to plug smuggling loopholes.
- Enhance surveillance at airports and cargo hubs using technology‑driven screening.
- Promote public awareness campaigns aligned with the Nasha Mukt Bharat initiative.
- Periodically review and update the legal framework to keep pace with new synthetic drugs.