Alappuzha, October 17 – In a major drug bust, a special squad of the excise department arrested two individuals, including a woman who claimed ties to the film industry, with three kilograms of high-quality hybrid ganja valued at approximately Rs2 crore.
The accused have been identified as:
Taslima Sulthana (41), alias Cristeena, originally from Kannur and currently residing in Chennai
K. Feroz (26), a native of Mannanchery, Alappuzha
The duo was apprehended from a resort in Omanappuzha around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, acting on a tip-off received by excise officials. The team conducted a swift operation and nabbed the suspects as they were exiting their vehicle.
During initial questioning, Taslima claimed she was associated with film personalities and had used drugs in their company. She said she had played minor roles in films and assisted in script translation. However, Excise Deputy Commissioner S Vinodkumar stated that her claims will be verified through detailed interrogation and call record analysis.
Officials later discovered that Taslima has a criminal past, with a Pocso case registered against her at Thrikkakkara Police Station. That case involves the sexual abuse of a girl after administering drugs, indicating a disturbing history.
Investigations reveal that Taslima operated a multi-state drug network from Chennai, aided by her long-time associate Feroz, who managed distribution and delivery of the contraband. She had previously stayed at a lodge in Kakkanad (Ernakulam) before relocating to Alappuzha.
Interestingly, Taslima had arrived at the resort with her husband and two children, though police confirmed they were not involved in her illegal activities.
The seized hybrid ganja—a premium variant sourced from Thailand and Malaysia—was being sold at Rs10,000 per gram, with payments made online and doorstep deliveries arranged by Feroz.
Authorities are continuing the probe to uncover potential film industry connections, financial trails, and international links to the racket.
