Trial of Kerala's first cocaine case involving Shine Tom Chacko among others yet to conclude

The Hema Committee Report included references to the drug connections within the film industry. However, the shock that ensued was due to a police report stating that film stars were among those who visited the hotel room of goon leader Omprakash. According to the remand report submitted in court, young actors Sreenath Bhasi and Prayaga Martin were part of the group that visited the notorious criminal’s room.

This revelation sparked renewed discussions about drug use in the film industry. In response to media questions seeking comments following the release of the Hema Committee Report, another young actor from Malayalam cinema, Shine Tom Chacko, said, "You already know the story of me going to jail." This comment was in reference to a case involving the actor’s arrest in connection with recovery of cocaine.

Shine Tom Chacko and some models were apprehended during a raid conducted at a flat in Kadavanthra, Kochi, on January 30, 2015, for possessing cocaine. Although the case was registered nearly ten years ago, the trial has yet to be concluded.

The trial commenced in the Additional Sessions Court in October, 2018. In the meantime, further investigations have also taken place. The police obtained images of cocaine that were taken on a phone by the first accused, Reshma Rangsami, and Blessy Silvester, just hours before the raid. The forensic examination results of their phones were also submitted to the court by the investigation team. Investigating officers have stated that such cases typically do not yield digital evidence. The trial proceedings are currently in the final stages, with the cross-examination of investigating officer Francis Shelbi still pending.

Five individuals were arrested with seven grams of cocaine. This marks the first cocaine case in Kerala. Assistant Excise Commissioner P S Sasikumar informed Mathrubhumi News that evidence of film actors using cocaine first emerged in 2015. He also noted that delays in trial proceedings are often due to the defence’s attempts to stall the process. Shine Tom Chacko was granted bail by the High Court two months after his arrest.