Kerala CM Writes to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry CMs Seeking Joint Action Against Interstate Drug Trafficking
Thiruvananthapuram: In a major initiative to curb the spread of narcotics and dismantle drug trafficking networks, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has written to the Chief Ministers of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, calling for stronger interstate cooperation under the state’s intensified anti-drug campaign, “Operation Toofan.”
In his letter, the Chief Minister highlighted that Kerala has strengthened intelligence-based enforcement measures as part of Operation Toofan. The campaign focuses on disrupting drug trafficking syndicates, targeting their financial networks, and confiscating illegally acquired assets.
The Chief Minister noted that drug trafficking networks operate across multiple states, making coordinated action among neighbouring states and Union Territories essential. Border regions connecting Kerala with Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, along with major transport corridors, tourist destinations, student networks, and urban distribution centres, are particularly vulnerable to exploitation by drug mafias.
He pointed out that Kerala Police has successfully arrested several interstate and international drug traffickers in recent operations. However, effectively combating such organised networks requires real-time intelligence sharing, joint enforcement operations, and coordinated strategic planning among neighbouring states.
To strengthen cooperation, the Chief Minister proposed convening a high-level meeting of senior officials from Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry to formulate a comprehensive joint action plan against interstate drug trafficking.
The letter further stated that Kerala’s Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, along with State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar and Tactical Commander Putta Vikramaditya, are prepared to hold discussions with police chiefs and senior home department officials from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry to enhance collaborative efforts in tackling the narcotics menace.
The initiative reflects Kerala’s commitment to building a coordinated regional framework to combat drug trafficking and safeguard communities from the growing threat of narcotics.
