Alappuzha Gymkhana Director Khalid Rahman, Director Ashraf Hamza Arrested In Kochi For Cannabis Possession

Khalid Rahman And Ashraf Hamza Arrested For Cannabis Possession: In a development that has drawn attention within the Malayalam film industry, three individuals - including noted directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza - were taken into custody by the Excise Department in Kochi for alleged possession of hybrid cannabis. The third person arrested was identified as Shalif Muhammad.

According to a report by Asianet News, the arrests were made following a raid conducted by the Excise Special Squad. Acting on a tip-off, the team carried out a search at a flat in Kochi during the early hours, where they reportedly found 1.6 grams of hybrid cannabis.

Excise officials stated that the trio was apprehended while allegedly attempting to use the substance. After recording their arrests, the authorities granted them bail, citing that the quantity of cannabis seized was below the threshold for a commercial case.

Khalid Rahman is known for directing several Malayalam films, including the recently released Alappuzha Gymkhana, as well as Unda, Thallumaala, Anuraga Karikkin Vellam, and Love. Ashraf Hamza has directed films such as Thamaasha and Bheemante Vazhi, and also contributed as a co-writer to the popular film Thallumaala.

Khalid Rahman has also acted in Manjummel Boys, a film that garnered considerable attention last year. His and Ashraf Hamza's involvement in this case has sparked wider discussions about substance use within the Malayalam film industry.

Authorities emphasized that the search and subsequent arrests were part of a broader effort to curb drug use among members of the entertainment sector. The Excise Department's recent actions appear to reflect a move towards stricter monitoring, even when smaller, non-commercial quantities of banned substances are involved.

Further proceedings are expected to follow according to legal protocols. As of now, neither the directors nor their representatives have issued public statements regarding the incident.