KOCHI: In a startling incident that has sent ripples through the Malayalam film industry, directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza were arrested early on Sunday, April 27, 2025, during a raid at a flat in Kochi, reportedly owned by cinematographer Sameer Thahir. The Excise Department, acting on a tip-off about suspected drug use, seized 1.6 grams of hybrid cannabis from the premises, where the three were allegedly preparing to consume the substance.
The raid took place around 2 AM at a flat near the Gosree Bridge, which has previously been under scrutiny for rampant drug use. This marks the second raid conducted at the same location, raising concerns about the ongoing issues of substance abuse within the local film community.
Alongside Rahman and Hamza, their associate Shalif Mohammed was also apprehended. Reports indicate that it was Mohammed who procured the hybrid cannabis from intermediaries. Following their arrest, the trio was granted station bail, as the quantity seized was below the threshold required for more serious charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Excise officials stated that the flat was ostensibly used for scriptwriting and film discussions, but they noted that drug use had become a regular occurrence there. An Excise Department official remarked, "Our team acted on confidential information. Though the amount recovered was small, our message is clear — no one is above the law." This statement underscores the department's commitment to tackling drug use in the entertainment industry.
Khalid Rahman, known for his successful films such as Anuraga Karikkin Vellam, Thallumaala, and the recently released Alappuzha Gymkhana, which has crossed the 50-crore mark globally, is regarded as one of the promising new-age directors in Malayalam cinema. Meanwhile, Ashraf Hamza has made a name for himself with critically acclaimed works like Thamaasha and Bheemante Vazhi.
Industry insiders have expressed shock at the arrests, especially given the recent controversies surrounding substance abuse in the film sector. Just days prior, actor Shine Tom Chacko was arrested under similar circumstances, highlighting a troubling trend among artists and technicians in Kerala's vibrant film industry.
The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) is reportedly preparing to take action against the arrested directors. A final decision will be made after a meeting of the FEFKA Directors' Union, as the organization assesses the implications of these arrests on the broader film community.
While both directors remained silent following their release on bail, the incident has reignited discussions about the pressures of fame and the challenges of substance misuse within the creative lifestyle. Organizations like the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) have previously committed to supporting de-addiction efforts and counseling initiatives, but the frequency of such incidents suggests a need for more stringent internal mechanisms and awareness programs.
As investigations continue, Excise officials are focusing on tracing the source of the hybrid cannabis and whether a broader network is involved. "We are committed to tracking both the supply and consumption chains," an official stated, emphasizing the importance of dismantling any potential drug distribution networks within the industry.
In the wake of these events, the Malayalam film industry faces a pivotal moment, with calls for greater accountability and awareness about substance abuse. Veteran filmmakers and actors have voiced concerns over the normalization of drug use in creative circles, stressing the need for a cultural shift that prioritizes health and well-being.
As authorities prepare to question Sameer Thahir regarding his connection to the flat and the events surrounding the raid, the film community watches closely, aware that the outcomes of this situation could have lasting implications for its reputation and the future of its artists.
The Excise Department's crackdown is part of a larger initiative known as Operation Clean State, aimed at addressing drug-related offenses in Kerala. As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that it will foster a safer and more responsible environment for all members of the film industry.
In conclusion, the arrests of Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Malayalam film industry, as it grapples with issues of substance abuse and the need for a cultural reckoning.
