Enforcement Teams to Screen Luggage on Inter-State Buses for Drugs

Speedy Summary

• Police and excise departments in north Kerala have formed special squads to conduct baggage screening and heighten vigilance against suspected drug-trafficking activities.
• Inspections will initially target inter-State buses between Kozhikode and Bengaluru, using joint enforcement teams for frequent checks.
• Students pursuing professional courses outside Kerala are reportedly targeted by traffickers with hefty commissions to transport concealed drugs discreetly. Secret parcel exchanges during bus journeys are also suspected.
• Manual baggage inspections will continue in the absence of portable scanners; unclaimed baggage could hold bus operators liable, though inspections aim to minimize travel delays.
• Anti-narcotics squads actively monitor individuals linked through call detail records of arrested traffickers, integrating inter-district coordination and intelligence sharing with other States.
• Other targeted groups include drivers of impounded vehicles such as private taxis or goods carriers; blacklisting vehicles and recommending suspension of driver licenses are planned measures.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The intensified focus on curbing drug trafficking through stringent screening plans reflects a growing concern about student involvement in illegal networks across State borders. Although enforcing thorough inspections poses logistical challenges-especially without portable scanners-the initiative is bolstered by coordinated efforts across districts and states, which may enhance real-time interception of trafficking attempts.

However, maintaining balance is key: manual screenings should aim for efficiency without significant disruption to passengers or transport operators’ schedules. the proactive inclusion of goods carriers alongside public transportation indicates a holistic approach that extends beyond immediate suspects.

By holding bus operators accountable for unclaimed luggage or violations, authorities may encourage higher vigilance among transport industry stakeholders-a critical step towards creating more deterrence at the grassroots level.

read more: Published – July 11, 2025 08:10 pm IST