How are synthetic drugs flooding into Kerala?

There was a time when intoxicants were limited to cheap and simple substances. In liquid form, it was mostly arrack and toddy; in solid form, cannabis was the go-to option. Then came foreign liquor. Over time, the nature, composition, and effects of intoxicants have drastically changed. Today’s drugs, often synthesised or extracted from organic sources, are far more potent and long-lasting than traditional ones, which used to induce only short-term pleasure or intoxication. Now, synthetic drugs that can cause hallucinations or delusions for several hours or even days are in high demand. Media reports of frequent drug seizures clearly show a sharp rise in the production, sale, and use of such substances, including MDMA and ketamine.

Among these, MDMA—methylenedioxymethamphetamine—is currently the most frequently seized synthetic drug in Kerala. Just a few days ago, police recovered over 1.25 kilograms of MDMA from four individuals in Kallambalam, Thiruvananthapuram district. The seized quantity is estimated to be worth around Rs 2.5 crore in the illegal drug market. The gang, which had flown in from Oman, transferred the drugs from the airport to a pickup truck and was en route to Kallambalam when they were caught. It remains a mystery how they managed to smuggle the drugs out of the airport, despite strict customs checks. According to the statement of the prime accused, most of the MDMA entering the state originates from Afghanistan, making its way through Pakistan and Oman. The Kallambalam bust is believed to be the largest and most valuable drug seizure in the state so far.

Despite the growing trend of synthetic drugs being trafficked into Kerala via international flights, there appears to be little justification for the lack of stricter customs inspections at airports. The Oman-based group was caught only because of a tip-off received by the DANSAF, which led to a targeted vehicle inspection. Without that, the drugs would have easily made it to the market. There are also allegations that some customs officials have ties with drug trafficking networks and are deliberately turning a blind eye, which may explain how large quantities of synthetic drugs are slipping through airport security.

One major challenge faced by enforcement agencies is the delay in scientifically verifying the authenticity of seized substances. There have even been cases where fraudsters sold fake products resembling MDMA at high prices. Currently, chemical testing is done at the Chief Chemical Examiner’s Lab or Forensic Labs. For further confirmation, samples must often be sent to central labs in Hyderabad or Pune. Due to a heavy case load, it can take months to receive test results. While the State Forensic Lab in Thiruvananthapuram has regional centres in Kochi, Thrissur, and Kannur, and Kollam has a district-level lab, the plan to establish forensic labs in every district remains unimplemented. As synthetic drugs become a major public threat, the state government must urgently take action at all levels.