Operation Toofan targets cyberspace; DJ parties cancelled, organisers go underground

Thiruvananthapuram: DJ parties are being cancelled, with organisers going underground as the state’s anti-drug crackdown, ‘Operation Toofan,’ is extended to cyberspace.

Organisers, who typically promote such events and sell tickets through social media platforms like Instagram, Threads and Telegram, are now halting their programmes amid increased surveillance.

The move comes after cyber teams from the intelligence wing reportedly gained access to the social media accounts of event organisers. Many of these parties, often held in hotels across major cities, were allegedly linked to the sale and use of narcotics.

Following increased police surveillance and intelligence gathering, organisers have begun postponing DJ parties in cities such as Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. They announced the cancellations and changes through their social media accounts.

Round-the-clock cyber patrol

The intelligence wing at Police Headquarters has intensified round-the-clock cyber patrolling. According to police sources, drug-related trade and communication are increasingly taking place through social media platforms as well as the dark web.

Intelligence inputs also suggest that several groups have decided to temporarily halt drug trafficking into Kerala until ‘Operation Toofan’ concludes.

Operation Toofan – The Narco Hunt

“Operation Toofan – The Narco Hunt” is a Kerala Police initiative aimed at dismantling drug networks across the state. The programme is being implemented in coordination with the Education, Health and Excise departments.

The state-level launch was held on June 2, 2026, at Cotton Hill School in Thiruvananthapuram. The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan.

Many of the prominent cultural and religious figures, including Mohanlal, Sayyid Muhammad Jifri Muthukkoya Thangal and Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar, have extended their support to the initiative as ‘Toofan Warriors’.