Joint efforts under way to combat illegal liquor and drug sales in Kollam
The district-level monitoring committee formed to enforce the ban on arrack has demanded strict inspections to prevent the sale of liquor beyond permissible limits and drug peddling.
At a meeting chaired by District Collector N. Devidas on Friday instructions were given to departments concerned to intensify surveillance. During the past two months, the Excise department conducted 2,173 raids in the district under 'Operation Clean Slate' and 272 people were arrested in 256 drug-related cases. As part of the 'Vimukthi' campaign, 201 awareness classes were held at the school level while 96 classes were organised at colleges. The committee assessed that the Excise department's vigilant efforts helped prevent the inflow of spurious liquor and reduce drug trafficking.
The committee also demanded that strict action be taken against complaints of illegal liquor and drug sales in Munroe Thuruthu. In order to address the issue, it was decided to conduct joint inspections by the police and excise in Kalluvathukkal, Kallumthazham, Chathannur, Mayyanad, Mukhathala, and Karunagappally. Directions were also issued to intensify inspections in tourist centres, flats and secluded areas. While awareness sessions in schools will be made more active, inspections will be held on college hostels, railway and bus stands, and shops selling 'arishtams'.
P.C. Vishnunath, MLA; Deputy Excise Commissioner M. Naushad; Assistant Excise Commissioner V.C. Baiju; and monitoring committee members attended the meeting.
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