Kochi: Directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza have been regular users of narcotics for the past four to five years, stated Excise officials after they were caught with hybrid cannabis in Kochi in the wee hours of Sunday. The officials also said the duo among the three individuals were arrested while preparing it for use. 

The operation was based on confidential information. Excise officials stated that the flat where they were caught was known to be a regular gathering place for people using cannabis and other narcotic substances. 

The Excise Department clarified that the flat belongs to director Sameer Thahir. The arrests were made from Flat No: 506 at Purva Grandbay near the Gosree Bridge.

Information has also been obtained regarding the suppliers who provided them with the cannabis, and further investigation is underway. A total of 1.6 grams of cannabis was seized from the directors. As the quantity was small, they were granted station bail.

Earlier, actor Shine Tom Chacko had been arrested in connection with drug use. The Excise Department had also found that Taslim Sultana, who was caught with hybrid cannabis at a resort in Alappuzha, and her husband had been supplying drugs to members of the film industry. However, it remains unclear whether Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza had any connection with them. Excise officials said this aspect would also be investigated.

Khalid Rahman, who was arrested, is the director of films such as Unda, June and Thallumaala. Ashraf Hamza is known for directing films such as Thamaasha and Bheemante Vazhi.