Kerala launches second phase of anti drug drive Operation Toofan

Keralam opened the second phase of Operation Toofan with a new public-participation push, as Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala called for collective action to keep the drug mafia away from society.

Toofan Janajagratha Samithi launched in Malappuram

The Toofan Janajagratha Samithi was launched at Malabar Arts and Science College at Vengara in Malappuram on Monday (September 28, 2026).

The second phase of the anti-drug campaign will focus on strengthening public participation through local bodies to prevent drug use and its spread.

Mr. Chennithala said the first phase of Operation Toofan had benefited from the participation of women.

He said mothers could identify changes in their children early, underlining the role of families in prevention efforts.

Minister cites decline in drug use

The Minister said drug use in Keralam had declined up to 30% since the launch of Operation Toofan.

He attributed the reduction to police action within and outside the State.

Mr. Chennithala also praised the Malappuram district police for seizing 13 kg of MDMA at Coimbatore based on information received from Manjeri.

He said the campaign had gained the trust of the public.

He also said the government had acted against offenders without discrimination.

Leaders and officials attend event

Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty presided over the function.

Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji attended the event.

P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP, and MLAs Abid Husain Thangal, Kurukkoli Moideen, Manjalamkuzhi Ali, V.S. Joy and P.K. Navas were also among those present.

Senior police and government officials attended the function as well.

Mr. Chennithala declared all those present at the event as ‘Toofan warriors’.

He presented Toofan badges to grama panchayat presidents.

The launch placed local bodies, women’s participation and police action at the centre of the second phase, according to the details shared at the event.

Published - September 28, 2026 04:20 pm IST.

Source: The Hindu