Malayalam film directors Khalid Rahman, Ashraf Hamza, 1 other held for possession of hybrid ganja

Kochi: In a late-night operation, three individuals, including two Malayalam film directors, were arrested by the Excise Department in Kochi for possession of hybrid ganja. Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, both noted directors, along with a third person, identified as Shalif Mohammed, were arrested during a raid conducted around Sunday 2 am. Excise authorities recovered 1.6 grams of hybrid ganja from the accused. They were later released on station bail.

Raid conducted based on confidential information
According to the Excise Department, the arrests were made following a raid at a flat near the Gosree Bridge in Kochi. The residence reportedly belonged to cinematographer Sameer Thahir. Shalif Mohammed, who was also taken into custody, is known to be a close friend of the directors.

The Excise Department sources said the raid was conducted based on confidential information.

Khalid Rahman is known for directing popular films such as Alappuzha Gymkhana and Thallumaala. Ashraf Hamza, meanwhile, has directed films including Thamaasha and Bheemannte Vazhi.