Archive · 16 Jun 2025
Kochi's Transformation: From Queen of the Sea to Drug Hub
Kochi, once known as a beautiful city, is now facing a serious drug problem.
Many people, including young people, are using drugs like MDMA, and the situation is getting worse.
The police are arresting people and seizing drugs, but it's still a big problem.
Drugs are coming into the city from different places, and it's easy to make a lot of money selling them.
The courts need to understand this is a big issue to help stop the problem.
Kochi faces a severe drug crisis, with rising cases and increasing involvement of minors.
MDMA, heroin, and ganja are major drugs seized in Kerala, particularly in Ernakulam.
The state saw 27,701 NDPS Act cases in 2024, far exceeding other regions.
Drug trafficking, including hybrid ganja, occurs through Kochi airport.
Low conviction rates and procedural issues impede efforts to combat drug issues.
- Who
- Young people, minors, and migrant laborers are involved in drug use and trafficking.
- What
- Kochi is experiencing a surge in drug-related issues and trafficking.
- When
- The situation has worsened recently, with increased cases in 2024 and 2025.
- Where
- Kochi, Kerala, and surrounding areas.
- Why
- Driven by high profit margins, easy money, and targeting of young people.
Challenges in Enforcement
Need for stricter enforcement of laws
Legal Procedure
Challenges in Enforcement
Inadequate legal procedures and lapses hinder offender convictions.
Need for stricter enforcement of laws
Strict enforcement of NDPS Act and legal procedures is vital.
Law Enforcement
Challenges in Enforcement
Poor training and knowledge of law enforcement agencies cause issues.
Need for stricter enforcement of laws
Enhanced training is needed for effective law enforcement.
- MDMA Seizures (2024)
- 24 kg
- Heroin Seizures (2024)
- 2 kg
- Ganja Seizures (2024)
- 4,500 kg
- NDPS Act Cases (2024)
- 27,701
- Drug-related Murders (Jan-Feb 2025)
- 30
- Hybrid Ganja Seized (Kochi Airport, since July 2024)
- 90 kg
- Convictions in NDPS cases (2022-2024)
- 2