A significant cannabis seizure recently occurred in Adimali. The Narcotics Enforcement department led the operation. They searched near Shevalukudi in Mankulam. They found 2.450 kilograms of cannabis. This haul represents a serious bust.
One individual was arrested at the location. His name is Mithun Binu. He is 21 years old. Officers found 1.030 kilograms of cannabis with him. The investigation then continued its course. Authorities proceeded to search a nearby house. They recovered an additional 1.420 kilograms of cannabis. This property belonged to Amal Sunny. He is accused of supplying the drugs. The auto-rickshaw used for transporting the cannabis was also seized. This incident underscores a troubling trend.
Adimali: A Recurring Drug Trafficking Hub
Adimali, located in Kerala’s Idukki district, has a history of drug seizures. It has been identified as a hotspot for hashish and cannabis trade. In 2017, hashish oil worth Rs 5 crore was seized there. Earlier, in 2016, 11 kg of hashish oil valued at Rs 11 crore was found. These past incidents show a pattern. Hashish is often distilled from cannabis in other states. It is then brought to Adimali. The price skyrockets significantly once it reaches the district. Adimali has been part of extensive hashish mafia networks. Moreover, recent activity includes MDMA seizures. A cannabis case suspect was also apprehended there in 2024. This recent bust adds to this concerning local history.
Kerala’s Worsening Drug Epidemic
Kerala faces a widespread and escalating drug crisis. The state consistently leads India in cases filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This is a stark contrast to traditional drug-affected areas. All 14 districts in Kerala are affected. Drug abuse impacts both urban and rural areas. Sadly, half of the murders reported in early 2025 were linked to drug abuse. The nature of drugs is also changing. While cannabis remains prevalent, synthetic drugs like MDMA and methamphetamine are increasingly common. This shift presents new challenges for law enforcement. The traditional landscape is evolving rapidly.
Evolving Trafficking Methods Emerge
Drug traffickers are adopting new and sophisticated methods. Kerala’s long coastline makes it a prime target for smuggling routes. Drugs arrive via sea and through various ports. Karnataka serves as a key transit state for these operations. Furthermore, online platforms are now crucial. Darknet markets and courier services facilitate drug sales. Cryptocurrency payments are becoming more common for these transactions. Social media plays a role too. Some groups even link drug subcultures with music. This digital integration makes tracking dealers more difficult. It also introduces new types of offenders, often younger and tech-savvy.
Law Enforcement’s Ongoing Battle
Government agencies are intensifying their crackdowns. Anti-drug campaigns like “No to Drugs” are active. The Excise Department conducts numerous raids. They inspect vehicles and register cases. However, significant challenges remain. Many cases involve small quantities. This often leads to bailable offenses, complicating deterrence. Traffickers also split larger stocks into smaller amounts. This tactic makes prosecution harder. Despite these difficulties, enforcement continues. The goal is to disrupt supply lines. It aims to protect the state’s youth. News related to these seizures is trending. It highlights the persistent threat.
This Adimali seizure is more than just one bust. It signifies the ongoing struggle. It shows the adaptability of drug networks. It also reflects Kerala’s critical fight. This battle requires constant vigilance. It needs comprehensive strategies. The state is committed to combating this menace. This effort continues on multiple fronts.
