Kerala Police ropes in religious leaders for anti-drug drive ‘Operation Toofan’

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala Photo Credit: H. VIBHU

The Kerala Home Department is reaching out to religious leaders to continue the ongoing police initiative ‘Operation Toofan’ to combat drug abuse.

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Saturday (June 20, 2026) declared Samasthu Kerala Jem-iyyathul Ulama State President Syed Mohammed Jifri Muthukoyu Thangal as ‘Toofan Warrior’, a title conferred on prominent figures and active volunteers who participate in the unit, at a function in Kozhikode. Mr. Thangal also received a badge.

Mr. Chennithala later told the media that the initiative was an effort by the United Democratic Front (UDF) government to save the young generation from the clutches of drug addiction. An awareness event will be held in schools across the state on June 26 to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking. It would be attended by ministers, MLAs and MPs. Mr. Chennithala claimed that the anti-drug initiative has been a great success as articles worth over ₹15 crore have been seized so far.

Kanthapuram Sunni leader AP Aboobacker Musliar was also declared ‘Toofan Warrior’ at another event.

Mr. Chennithala later claimed that the goal was a “drug-free Kerala”. He thanked Mr. Musliar for agreeing to participate in the proceedings.

Mr Chennithala is expected to meet Mar Remigios Inchananiyil, Bishop of Thamarassery Diocese, in the afternoon.

Published – 20 Jun 2026 13:11 IST