Kozhikode forms committees to combat drug activity

Kozhikode district is forming local vigilance committees to help monitor drug activity in newly identified hotspots. These committees will include community representatives, youth clubs, and residents’ groups. The Excise department is leading this initiative based on a list of 47 drug hotspots across the district. Officials say they are ready to act, with plans for increased public participation in monitoring these areas. The committees will be set up soon as part of a new action plan. Authorities are also considering a triple-layer surveillance system around these hotspots. This will include regular patrols and plainclothes officers for better attention to suspicious activities. Additionally, joint inspections with anti-narcotics squads and surprise checks by strike teams will be conducted. A senior Excise officer mentioned that treatment and counseling for those struggling with addiction will also be prioritized. Under the Vimukti project, in-patient treatment and regular consultations are currently offered. The State government is also looking into the possibility of opening a State-level de-addiction center in Kozhikode.