In a major anti-narcotics operation conducted under Operation Thunder, excise officials arrested two suspected drug peddlers near Ernakulam South Metro Station in Kochi on Friday. The raid resulted in the seizure of 6.031 grams of MDMA and cash suspected to be proceeds from illegal drug sales. The operation is part of Kerala’s intensified campaign against narcotics trafficking and distribution.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Muhasheeb S. (29) from Kollam and Ashika Tanveer (22) from Thrissur. According to excise officials, the duo allegedly sourced MDMA from Bengaluru and operated from various lodges across Kochi while distributing the synthetic drug to customers in the city. Authorities also recovered ₹12,620, believed to have been earned through drug transactions.
Investigators stated that the suspects frequently changed locations and stayed in different lodges to avoid detection by law enforcement agencies. Intelligence inputs and surveillance efforts eventually led officials to their movements near the metro station, where the arrest was carried out. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb the growing menace of synthetic drug trafficking in urban centers.
Excise officials emphasized that Kochi remains a key focus area in the state’s anti-drug campaign due to increasing attempts by traffickers to distribute substances such as MDMA among young people and students. Operation Thunder has been launched to identify drug supply networks, arrest peddlers, and disrupt distribution channels operating across the state.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to identify the wider network connected to the accused. Officials are examining digital evidence, financial transactions, and communication records to determine the source of the drugs and identify potential associates involved in the trafficking operation.
The arrests have been welcomed by local residents and anti-drug campaigners, who have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement against narcotics distribution. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to continuing surprise inspections, intelligence-based raids, and coordinated operations aimed at keeping drugs off the streets.
Officials have urged the public to cooperate with anti-narcotics initiatives by reporting suspicious activities and providing information that could help prevent the spread of illegal drugs. The investigation remains ongoing, and further arrests are not being ruled out as authorities work to dismantle the network behind the operation.
