In a major action against the illegal drug trade, Kerala Police on Friday demolished a roadside shop allegedly being used to sell banned narcotic substances in the Pooppara area of Idukki district. The action was carried out as part of the state’s anti drug campaign, ‘Operation Toofan’.
According to police, the shop was run by 47 year old Easwaran, who allegedly built the structure by encroaching on government land. Officials said he had been using the shop to sell banned intoxicants and narcotic substances for profit. Police records show that five criminal cases had already been registered against him, but he allegedly continued the illegal business.
Authorities said the local panchayat had earlier issued a notice asking Easwaran to remove the illegal structure. He challenged the notice in the High Court and received interim relief. However, after the court ruled in favour of the authorities, the shop was demolished using a JCB earthmover with police protection.
Police said this is among the first demolition drives targeting a drug distribution point under Operation Toofan. Officials warned that similar action will be taken against illegally constructed buildings used for drug trafficking. They also said those involved in such activities could face criminal charges and even cancellation of business licences where applicable.
The statewide anti drug campaign has intensified in recent weeks. According to Kerala Police, Operation Toofan has led to the registration of 3,657 drug related cases and the arrest of 3,931 people within the first three weeks of the crackdown, highlighting the state’s continued efforts to curb narcotics trafficking.
