Flasher lights and no patients: MDMA worth Rs 8.5 lakh seized from ambulance

THRISSUR: In a major drug bust, the Thrissur District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force (DANSAF) seized 252 grams of MDMA being smuggled in an ambulance at the Vaniyambara checkpoint on the national highway. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the incident.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Sandeep (42), a resident of Ancheri, and Faith (21), a resident of Vettikkal.

According to police sources, the interception took place around 6:30 AM yesterday during a routine vehicle inspection. An ambulance operating under the name 'Sharon' was spotted approaching the checkpoint at high speed with its beacon lights flashing to simulate an emergency. Upon intercepting the vehicle, officers discovered there were no patients onboard. A subsequent search led to the recovery of MDMA, valued at approximately ₹8.5 lakh, from the pocket of the driver, Sandeep.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the contraband was sourced from Bengaluru and was intended for distribution across Thrissur district.
"We are currently investigating the financial transactions and phone records of the accused. We strongly suspect the involvement of a larger network behind this smuggling operation," stated the City Police.
The operation was conducted as part of 'Operation Toofan,' under the direct guidance of District Police Chief Nakul R. Deshmukh. The inspection team was led by Narcotic Cell ACP P. Shibu, and included Sub-Inspectors Bibin P. Nair and Ragesh, alongside Cyber Police Officers (CPOs) Shihab, Ashish, Sharath, and Nibu.