Alappuzha Gymkhana director Khalid Rahman and Thamaasha director Ashraf Hamza were arrested by the Excise Department in the early hours of Sunday in Kochi after being found in possession of hybrid ganja. A third individual, Shalif Mohammed, a close associate of the directors, was also taken into custody. The three were released on station bail later today.
The arrests followed a raid conducted around 2 am at a flat in the Purva Grandbay complex near the Gosree Bridge. The flat, reportedly rented by seasoned cinematographer Sameer Thahir, was searched based on confidential information received by the authorities. During the operation, excise officers seized approximately 1.6 grams of hybrid ganja from the premises. An official from the Ernakulam excise squad confirmed that the trio were preparing to consume the substance at the time of the raid. Upon interrogation, it was alleged that all three were regular users of ganja. Cases have been registered against them under Sections 20(b)(II)A and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Excise Inspector KP Pramod stated that although the quantity seized was small, a detailed investigation would be undertaken to trace the source of the hybrid ganja.
Khalid is best known for directing hit films such as Anuraga Karikkin Vellam, Unda, and Thallumaala. His latest release, Alappuzha Gymkhana, is currently running successfully in theatres. Last year, he also appeared in a prominent role as an actor in Chidambaram's blockbuster film Manjummel Boys. Apart from helming Thamaasha, Bheemante Vazhi and Sulaikha Manzil, Ashraf has also served as a co-writer on Khalid's Thallumaala.
The arrests have once again brought alleged drug abuse in the Malayalam film industry under scrutiny. Recently, actor Shine Tom Chacko was apprehended in a separate narcotics case after attempting to evade a DANSAF team during a raid at a hotel. He too was released on station bail following interrogation and a medical examination.
