April 27, 2025: In a late-night operation conducted by the Kochi Excise Department, three individuals, including two prominent Malayalam film directors, were arrested for possessing hybrid ganja. The individuals identified as Khalid Rahman, Ashraf Hamza, and their associate Shalif Mohammed were taken into custody after authorities discovered 1.6 grams of the illegal substance.
Khalid Rahman, known for his acclaimed film Manjummel Boys, and Ashraf Hamza, the director behind the successful debut film Thamaasha, were both detained under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Despite the high-profile nature of the individuals involved, no further illicit substances were found during the investigation.
The arrest has garnered widespread attention due to the filmmakers’ well-known status in the Malayalam film industry. However, the trio was granted station bail shortly after their detention, with the Excise Department stating that the investigation is ongoing.
This incident has sparked discussions in both the film industry and public spheres, with many expressing surprise at the involvement of well-known figures in such a case.