SPC calls for collective fight against drug menace

State Police Chief (SPC) Ravada A. Chandrasekhar has sought collective action to tackle drug menace, describing it as a national security concern that is seeping into schools, colleges, and rural communities.

Speaking at the handing over of Soxtoxa analysers, a device for checking the presence of drugs, to the police in Kannur, he said that 25,000 drug cases had been registered so far this year.

The SPC said drug abuse was no longer confined to dark alleys but was destabilising society by corrupting youth, destroying families, and fuelling organised crime.

“Kerala, with its high literacy rate, must not fall prey to this silent epidemic. Along with enforcement, early detection, timely intervention and strong partnership are essential,” he said.

Highlighting enforcement efforts, Mr. Chandrasekhar said 30,000 cases were detected in 2023, while 27,000 cases were detected in 2024. This year alone, the police detected 3,000 ganja cases and seized 17 kg of MDMA.

Pointing to large-scale drug seizures at ports and airports, he said enforcement was crucial to choking supply chains. He commended police personnel for their efforts but stressed the need for community participation.

The SPC urged civic bodies, NGOs, educational institutions, parents, media, and student police cadets to join the fight against drugs.

Sotoxa analysers were provided using the corporate social responsibility funds of Walker Foundation in collaboration with Kannur Seaside Rotary Club. Inspector General (North Zone) Rajpal Meena, Kannur Range Deputy Inspector General G.H. Yatheesh Chandra, District Police Chief (Kannur City) P. Nidhinraj, and Walker Foundation chairman V.K.C. Naushad were present.