Two well-known Malayalam directors, Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamsa, were arrested with a small amount of hybrid ganja in Ernakulam on Sunday. The third man involved was their friend, Shalif Mohammed.
Excise officers raided a flat around 2 am after a tip-off about drug use. The flat was reportedly rented by cinematographer Sameer Thahir.
Only 1.63 grams of hybrid ganja was seized, and all three men were released later on station bail. But a formal case has been registered under the NDPS Act.
The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) Directors’ Union quickly suspended Rahman and Hamsa. The union said it would wait for more updates before considering further action.
Excise officials say an investigation is on to find the source of the drugs. Thahir may also be questioned soon for letting his flat be used, officials added.
Political leaders have now called for stricter action against drug use in the film world. They say celebrities must act responsibly, especially since they influence the youth.