New Delhi: Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intensified its anti-narcotics campaign in Kerala under Operation Chakravyuh, seizing more than 24 kg of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and arresting five people allegedly linked to trafficking networks.
The coordinated operations were carried out by the DRI’s Cochin Unit across Kochi, Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram. Officials said the seizures included methaqualone, methamphetamine and hashish oil that were allegedly intended for illegal distribution and trafficking.
According to the DRI, investigators detected the contraband through multiple smuggling methods. The drugs were allegedly concealed in passenger baggage at an airport, hidden inside courier consignments and packed within outbound export cargo.
Officials said the operation targeted organised trafficking networks that use both international and domestic channels to move narcotic substances. As a result, authorities apprehended five individuals, including alleged key operatives connected to the trafficking chain.
All five accused were arrested under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify additional links connected to the seized consignments.
The agency stated that the operation reflected its ongoing strategy to disrupt drug supply chains and prevent narcotics from reaching illegal markets.
Operation Chakravyuh targets organised trafficking networks
DRI officials said the latest seizures formed part of a broader enforcement drive against narcotics smuggling in Kerala. The agency has increased surveillance and intelligence-based operations to detect concealed shipments and intercept trafficking attempts.
During the previous financial year, the DRI’s Cochin Zonal Unit seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances valued at approximately ₹70.76 crore across Kerala. Authorities also arrested 21 people in connection with various NDPS cases during that period.
Officials noted that traffickers continue to adopt different concealment techniques to evade detection. Therefore, enforcement agencies are strengthening monitoring systems and coordinating intelligence efforts to counter emerging smuggling methods.
The agency said the latest operation demonstrated the importance of coordinated action against organised criminal networks involved in drug trafficking. Investigators believe such operations can help curb the movement of illicit substances through transport hubs and logistics channels.
Meanwhile, DRI officials reiterated their commitment to combating narcotics-related crimes and dismantling trafficking syndicates operating in the region. They said enforcement efforts would continue with a focus on intelligence gathering, interdiction and prosecution under the NDPS Act.
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence stated that its anti-drug initiatives support the Government of India’s objective of creating a “Nasha Mukt Bharat” by reducing the availability of illegal narcotic substances and preventing their spread in society.
