ED raids multiple locations in Keralam in hybrid ganja smuggling money-laundering case
The Enforcement Directorate has launched raids in Kerala as part of a money-laundering investigation into a hybrid ganja smuggling ring. The operation involves the illegal import of narcotics from Thailand and the use of hawala channels to transfer funds.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing challenge of international drug trafficking and the use of sophisticated hydroponic cultivation techniques in regional crime.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at multiple locations in Kozhikode and Palakkad districts of Keralam on Thursday (September 3, 2026) as part of a money-laundering probe related to the smuggling of hybrid ganja from Thailand, officials said.
According to ED officials, searches are being conducted at the residences of accused persons Abu Tahir, Harikrishnan, Jagath and Jaisal in Kozhikode and Palakkad districts.
In June this year, the Ernakulam Rural police arrested a couple and seized around 18 kg of hybrid ganja, worth around ₹18 crore, from Perumbavoor.
Hybrid ganja, cultivated using hydroponic techniques, is allegedly smuggled into Keralam mainly from Thailand.
The police later arrested nine more persons who were allegedly part of a racket involved in smuggling large quantities of hybrid ganja from Thailand.
Based on the police investigation, the ED recently registered a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
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