Keralam launches second phase of anti-drug drive Operation Toofan
Ramesh Chennithala calls for collective action to keep drug mafia away. Second phase to focus on strengthening public participation through local bodies to prevent drug use and its spread
Kerala's Home Minister, Ramesh Chennithala, announced the commencement of the second phase of the state's anti-drug initiative, Operation Toofan, on September 28, 2026. The Toofan Janajagratha Samithi was inaugurated at Malabar Arts and Science College in Vengara, Malappuram. This phase aims to boost public involvement from local bodies to curb drug use and its dissemination.
Chennithala credited women's involvement in the first phase for its success, noting that mothers could detect early changes in their children. He reported a 30% decline in drug usage in Kerala since the launch of Operation Toofan, which he attributed to police efforts both within and outside the state. Chennithala also commended the Malappuram district police for confiscating 13 kg of MDMA in Coimbatore based on a tip from Manjeri.
The campaign has earned public trust, and the government has taken action against offenders without bias. Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty chaired the event. Attendees included Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji, MPs P.V. Abdul Wahab and MLAs Abid Husain Thangal, Kurukkoli Moideen, Manjalamkuzhi Ali, V.S. Joy, and P.K.
Navas, along with senior police and government officials. Chennithala honored the present participants as 'Toofan warriors' and distributed Toofan badges to gram panchayat presidents.
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