Overview The Kollam City police have undertaken a vigorous operation named Operation D-Hunt to combat drug peddlers and traffickers. In 2025 , this operation led to the registration of 22 commercial quantity drug cases and 50 medium quantity cases. A total of 968 individuals were arrested from various parts of the country. Key Objectives of Operation D-Hunt Preventing the use and trade of narcotics in society. Targeting individuals involved in drug-related cases. Preventive Detention Measures To prevent illegal trafficking and distribution of narcotics, 10 individuals from Kollam city have been placed under preventive detention. They are currently housed in various jails across the State under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act . According to officers, this number is high compared to other districts, indicating strong action against the drug mafia. Focus on Dismantling Drug Networks The Kollam City police are focusing on tracing the source of seized drugs to effectively dismantle the entire network, rather than just arresting individuals caught trafficking narcotics. This approach aims to eliminate all links in the chain, including production, storage, distribution, and financing of the narcotics. Impact and Public Confidence The measures taken by the police are intended to boost public confidence and encourage people to participate in anti-narcotics efforts. This strengthens the Kerala Police’s anti-drug campaigns such as ‘Yodhavu’ . Strong measures to suppress the drug mafia groups will continue in the district. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly for GS Paper 2 (Governance, Social Justice) and GS Paper 3 (Security) . It highlights government efforts to combat drug trafficking and maintain law and order. Key Points for UPSC Operation D-Hunt: An initiative by Kerala Police to prevent narcotics use and trade. Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act: Legislation used for preventive detention of individuals involved in drug trafficking. ‘Yodhavu’: Kerala Police’s anti-drug campaign. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the challenges in curbing drug trafficking in India and the measures taken by law enforcement agencies. Evaluate the effectiveness of preventive detention in controlling drug-related crimes, considering its impact on civil liberties. Analyze the role of community participation in anti-drug campaigns and the importance of public confidence in law enforcement.