Kozhikode, July 28 (IANS) A third woman teacher was arrested on Tuesday in the sensational MDMA racket that has rocked Kerala’s education sector, with the custody of Perambra Block Resource Centre (BRC) trainer Nishma widening the probe into what investigators now suspect is a well-organised drug distribution network operating through QR code payments, social media, and Google Maps locations.
Nishma’s arrest comes days after the Vadakara police arrested K.C. Keerthana of Maruthonkara and Kavya of Koorachundu.
Investigators said an examination of Nishma’s bank accounts revealed multiple money transfers, strengthening suspicions that she played a key role in the racket’s financial operations.
Police have now confirmed that the three arrested teachers were not merely collecting money from customers but were also consuming MDMA themselves.
The revelation has raised serious concerns as all three had reportedly participated in anti-drug awareness campaigns conducted in schools and public institutions.
A 10-member police team has been constituted to trace the remaining members of the network.
Investigators suspect the racket extends beyond the three teachers and are examining whether more teachers or others were involved in the narcotics trade.
According to the investigation, the trio relied extensively on social media to coordinate transactions.
Customers transferred money through QR code payments to the accused, following which they were sent a Google Maps location identifying the spot where the MDMA had been concealed for collection.
Police believe the method enabled the network to distribute drugs while avoiding direct contact with buyers.
Investigators are also scrutinising digital payment records to identify other members of the network and those who received money through the transactions.
Police said Nishma, Keerthana, and Kavya were frequently seen together, suggesting close coordination in the alleged operation.
The case came to light during ‘Operation Toofan’, a special anti-drug drive led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, after the arrest of two alleged drug peddlers with MDMA.
A forensic analysis of the trio’s financial transactions allegedly led investigators to the three teachers, exposing what police now believe is a sophisticated drug distribution network operating under the cover of legitimate employment.
Police are expected to seek the custody of all three accused for detailed interrogation to identify the suppliers, financiers, delivery agents and others who may have been part of the racket.
–IANS
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