The number of people arrested as part of the Statewide anti-narcotics drive ‘Operation Toofan’ launched by the Keralam Police crossed 10,000, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said on Friday.

According to data shared by Mr. Chennithala in a Facebook post, 9,280 cases have been registered under Operation Toofan since its launch in June this year, while 10,015 people have been arrested.

The police have also seized 1,004 kg of ganja and 8.28 kg of MDMA during the drive, he said.

An average of six arrests were being made every hour in Keralam as part of the anti-narcotics operation.

“We have taken up a major fight. The availability of drugs in the State has decreased,” the Minister said.

Describing Operation Toofan as a model of a people’s fight against evil, Mr. Chennithala said the initiative could serve as an example for the entire country when people and police worked together.

He urged people not to allow drugs to flow into the State under the cover of Onam celebrations. “We should not allow drugs to flow under the guise of Onam celebrations. The Toofan special drive is strong to ensure a safe Onam season,” he said.

He also praised the people for turning Operation Toofan into a people’s movement and assured that the fight against drugs would continue without compromise. “I salute this land that has developed Operation Toofan into a people’s movement. I assure you that the fight will continue without compromise,” he said.

Published - August 21, 2026 08:57 pm IST