ED raids multiple locations in Keralam in hybrid ganja smuggling money-laundering case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids across multiple locations in Kozhikode and Palakkad districts of Kerala on September 3, 2026, as part of an investigation into money-laundering linked to the smuggling of hybrid ganja from Thailand. According to officials, searches are being carried out at the residences of accused individuals Abu Tahir, Harikrishnan, Jagath, and Jaisal in Kozhikode and Palakkad.

In June, police arrested a couple in Perumbavoor and seized approximately 18 kg of hybrid ganja, valued at around ₹18 crore. The narcotic substance, grown using hydroponic methods, is primarily smuggled into Kerala from Thailand. Following the police investigation, the ED registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Preliminary investigations by the ED suggest that the accused were allegedly engaged in laundering substantial sums of money derived from drug trafficking from Thailand to India. They allegedly transferred the funds through illicit channels to Thailand. The ED is also examining potential violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) in connection with the case.

The agency is investigating allegations that some of the accused in the racket were still in Thailand and are attempting to repatriate them to India.