Kozhikode Drug Probe Expands as Investigators Track Financial Middlemen and Digital Trails
The Kozhikode Rural police have launched a wider crackdown on synthetic drug distribution following the arrest of three teachers and an online delivery agent. A newly formed SIT is now tracing a network of students and women used as financial intermediaries by interstate traffickers.
Tracking the Financial Web of Synthetic Narcotics
In a significant escalation of Kerala's anti-narcotics efforts, the newly formed Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kozhikode Rural police has intensified its search for financial intermediaries linked to a multi-state drug syndicate. This shift follows the detention of three instructors from the Perambra Block Resource Centre—K.C. Keerthana, K. Kavya, and V.P. Neeshma—who allegedly facilitated covert monetary transfers for traffickers. Investigators are currently focused on identifying a diverse network of women and students who reportedly operated under pseudonyms to move large sums of money.
The investigation reveals a pattern where many of these intermediaries were themselves addicted to synthetic substances. According to an officer from the District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force, these individuals viewed their roles as a low-risk method to fund lavish lifestyles. Tuesday marked another development in the case with the arrest of Jijin Kuriakose, an online delivery professional from Iritty, for his alleged collusion with rural traffickers.
Coordinated Enforcement and Cyber Surveillance
Law enforcement agencies are currently monitoring three additional suspects for interrogation, relying heavily on digital evidence and testimonies from those already in custody. The probe involves several layers of security and oversight:
- Border and Airport Watch: Surveillance has increased at district boundaries and airports to prevent suspects from fleeing the region.
- International Links: The State Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force and the Narcotics Control Bureau are investigating Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) suspected of coordinating trade from abroad.
- Cyber Patrols: High-tech crime units have flagged hundreds of social media accounts. These profiles frequently utilize fake names and coded language to reach specific demographics while evading detection.
By merging the capabilities of various local police station teams, authorities aim to dismantle the entire hierarchy of the racket. Detectives are currently analyzing bank transactions and call records to bridge the gap between local distributors and the overseas coordinators managing the operations via encrypted social media platforms.
Source: The Hindu — Home
