THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as the government continues its efforts to curb the scourge of drug addiction, the drug mafia is driving Kerala into a frenzy by supplying lethal chemical intoxication even in villages. LSD stamps brought from abroad and MDMA made by labs in other states are available all over Kerala. The drug mafia has taken hold in colleges and schools, turning students into carriers and sellers. Teachers are also there in the drug network. An investigation is underway into the drugging and exploitation of 3 schoolgirls in the capital. Drugs worth 25,000 crores from Pakistan were seized in Kochi offshore last day.

Despite efforts by the police and excise, the network of drug delivery and sales is unable to be dismantled. Intoxicants arrive by road, train and air and by sea from Tamil Nadu. In most crimes, the villains are drugs. Chemical intoxicants are available in stamp, sticker, pill, chocolate, chewing gum form, and in granules that look like sugar and salt. They are colorless and odorless and hence cannot be detected easily.

None of the measures like the 2-year pre-trial detention of drug dealers and confiscation of assets have yielded results. Although saliva drug testing kits have recently been made available to Excise, these are not sufficient to detect widespread use. Drug busting at borders, trains and interstate buses is also inefficient.

Political Protection: Investigation slacked off

Last December, DGP Anilkanth had revealed that he was investigating whether the drug mafia was getting political protection. The police investigation slacked off later. The DGP had said this in the context of allegations made by the opposition in the assembly.

Chemical intoxication

• Those who use it once will be addicted for life.
• The first use of MDMA itself can cause peeling of the skin in the mouth.
• There will be no sleep for days, user won't desire food and water.
• Regular use can cause tooth loss and brain dysrhythmias.
• Depression, suicidal tendencies, sudden outbursts of anger.
• Untimely death due to stroke and cerebral hemorrhage.

Used by both men and women

• MDMA and LSD manufactured in labs are used indiscriminately by men and women. Students and other state people are the carriers. Price Rs.3000-7000 per gram.
• MDMA enters Kerala from Bengaluru. Business centered on campuses and schools. Even 10 year olds use it.
• 4-6 hours of frenzy if an LSD stamp is torn into four and a piece is placed on the tongue. One will become unconscious if a stamp is used all at once. Delivered from abroad. Price 2000-5000 rupees.

Year-on-year increase in drug cases: 800%

Value of drugs seized in Kerala in two years: ₹1000 crore