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Ernakulam sees heavy inflow of suspected MDMA
In April, Ernakulam saw a surge in inflow of suspected synthetic drugs, with nearly 1 kg of MDMA seized in multiple operations. City and rural police recovered portions totaling 396.04 g and over 500 g, respectively, amid a crackdown that followed a March Kadavanthra hotel raid. The probe led to the arrest of Kevin B. Mathew, 42, alleged kingpin, with 183.55 g MDMA and 93.51 g ecstasy pills.
Why It Matters
The crackdown signals intensified law enforcement efforts against narcotics trafficking in Ernakulam and highlights ongoing investigations into a local drug racket.
Timeline
3 Events
April 2026 seizures indicate spike in inflow
April 2026
In April, Ernakulam saw a surge in inflow of suspected synthetic drugs, with nearly 1 kilogram of MDMA seized in multiple operations. Of this, 396.04 grams were recovered within the city limits, while rural police confiscated over 500 grams in a major haul.
Investigation leads to arrest of Kevin B. Mathew
March 2026
The ensuing probe led to the arrest of Kevin B. Mathew, 42, identified as the alleged kingpin of a city-based drug racket, with 183.55 grams of suspected MDMA and 93.51 grams of suspected ecstasy pills recovered.
Kadavanthra star hotel raid triggers crackdown
March 2026
A raid at a star hotel in Kadavanthra, Ernakulam, led to the arrest of eight professionals on suspicion of possessing narcotics, triggering a broader crackdown on illicit drug inflow in the district.