Malayalam directors Khalid Rahman, Ashraf Hamza arrested for possession of drugs, released on bail
Kochi: In a late-night operation, the Excise Department in Kochi arrested prominent Malayalam film directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, along with a third individual, Shalif Mohammed, for alleged possession of hybrid ganja.
The arrest was made during a raid at an apartment near the Gosree Bridge, reportedly owned by cinematographer Sameer Thahir. Acting on a tip-off, excise officials carried out the operation around 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, seizing approximately 1.6 grams of hybrid ganja from the trio.
According to officers, the three were caught while allegedly preparing to consume the contraband. They were taken into custody and later released on station bail.
The Excise Department revealed that Rahman and Hamza are regular narcotics users. “We have to investigate further about the supplier based on the information they gave,” an official said.
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Mangaluru airport issues advisory to passengers, heightens security measures
Mangaluru: In response to recent cross-border attacks by Pakistan and rising tensions along the international boundary, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has directed airports across India to enhance security protocols. As part of this nationwide alert, Mangaluru International Airport has intensified surveillance, and introduced secondary ladder point checks (LPSC).
Explaining about the new protocol, Jaideep Shenoy, Public Relations Officer at Mangaluru International Airport, said that the secondary ladder point security check involves a second round of frisking. Passengers will first undergo standard checks by the CISF at the security checkpoint. Before boarding the aircraft, either via a boarding bridge or a bus, they will be subjected to an additional frisking by airline staff at the gate. Shenoy emphasized that the LPSC is a standard security measure implemented at all airports.
He also urged travelers to stay updated by checking the airport’s official social media channels for accurate and timely information.
In light of circulating reports regarding restrictions on visitor entry, Shenoy clarified that the entry of visitors into the terminal has always been restricted. Visitors may accompany passengers up to the departure gates or receive them at the arrival gates, as per existing rules.
In an advisory issued on Friday, Mangaluru International Airport urged passengers to arrive well in advance of their scheduled departures to accommodate extended security checks, and to cooperate with airport and security personnel.
The airport authorities also urged people not to share any unverified information.
#MangaluruAirport is fully operational, with your safety and comfort as our top priority. Stay informed and plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey.
— Mangaluru Airport (@mlrairport) May 9, 2025
Here’s everything you need to know before you fly, from security guidelines to handy dos and don’ts.
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