Keralam launches second phase of Operation Toofan anti-drug drive
Keralam launched the second phase of its anti-drug campaign Operation Toofan at Vengara, with a focus on public participation through local bodies.
Keralam on Monday launched the second phase of its anti-drug campaign, Operation Toofan, with the government calling for collective action to keep the drug mafia away from society.
The Toofan Janajagratha Samithi was inaugurated at Malabar Arts and Science College in Vengara, Malappuram. The next phase of the drive will focus on strengthening public participation through local bodies to prevent drug use and its spread.
Speaking at the event, Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the involvement of women had helped make the first phase a success, noting that mothers were often able to spot changes in their children at an early stage.
The Minister said drug use in the State had declined by up to 30% since Operation Toofan was launched, crediting police action both within and outside Keralam for the reduction. He also commended the Malappuram district police for seizing 13 kg of MDMA in Coimbatore based on information received from Manjeri.
Mr. Chennithala said the campaign had earned public trust and that the government had acted against offenders without discrimination.
Industries Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty presided over the function. Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji, MP P.V. Abdul Wahab, MLAs Abid Husain Thangal, Kurukkoli Moideen, Manjalamkuzhi Ali, V.S. Joy and P.K. Navas, and senior police and government officials were present.
The Minister declared those attending the event as ‘Toofan warriors’ and presented Toofan badges to grama panchayat presidents.