Drug menace: abandoned buildings in Kozhikode under police lens

One of the abandoned sheds on the Kozhikode Beach
| Photo Credit: K. Ragesh

The city police have identified several abandoned and unoccupied buildings suspected of being frequented by drug pushers and anti-social elements. The action comes in the wake of repeated complaints from local body representatives, domestic tourists, and traders.

Flash inspections at these sites previously led to the discovery of used syringes and containers believed to have been discarded by drug addicts. Some locations were reportedly known as regular meeting points for local drug dealers and buyers.

According to police sources, the newly identified buildings will now be monitored by the night patrol squad as part of heightened security measures. Plainclothes policemen will also conduct regular checks at such spots to track suspicious activity. 

Many of these buildings, deemed unfit for commercial use, have been neglected by their owners, with little to no maintenance, allegedly making them hotspots for illicit activities. Recent inspections revealed that the doors of several old buildings had been broken.

“The clashes between drug addicts have disturbed local traders and visitors at Kozhikode Beach. Despite multiple complaints to the police, no significant steps were taken to close off these hideouts,” said Rathnesh Valappil, a taxi operator.