Two DANSAF officers injured in alleged deliberate car attack in Thiruvananthapuram
Two officers from the District Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force (DANSAF) of the Thiruvananthapuram City Police were injured on Tuesday evening when a car allegedly rammed into their motorcycle during an operation to apprehend a suspected drug gang.
The injured officers, identified as Vineeth and Rojin, were admitted to the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital. Hospital sources said their condition is stable.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. within the limits of the Valiyathura police station. The officers were travelling on a motorcycle when a car hit them, causing them to fall, according to official sources. The car then stopped, reversed, and deliberately drove into the officers again. The vehicle reportedly ran over Rojin’s leg before the occupants fled the scene.
Police have identified the suspects and launched a search to apprehend them. A case has been registered at the Valiyathura police station, and investigations are being carried out under the supervision of senior city police officials.
DANSAF is a specialised unit of the Kerala Police established to combat drug trafficking and abuse at the district level. It functions under the respective District Police Chief and coordinates with central agencies such as the Narcotics Control Bureau. The unit is responsible for conducting raids, seizures, and surveillance in identified drug hotspots.
Over the past few years, Kerala has seen a rise in drug-related crimes, including the smuggling of synthetic drugs through coastal and inter-state routes. The police have responded by strengthening special units and intensifying patrols in vulnerable areas.
The attack on the officers highlights the persistent risks faced by law enforcement personnel in anti-narcotics operations. Such incidents underscore the need for adequate protection and support for frontline officers.
Local residents who witnessed the incident expressed shock and condemned the attack. Some stated that such violent acts against police personnel are unacceptable and demanded strict action against the culprits. The police have urged the public to share any information that could help identify the suspects.
Technical teams are collecting forensic evidence from the spot to establish the sequence of events. The investigation is also examining CCTV footage from nearby establishments and traffic cameras to trace the vehicle’s route.
Senior police officers have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of personnel and continuing the drive against narcotics. They said the incident will not deter them from their duties, and the attackers will be brought to justice.
Under the Indian Penal Code, assault or obstruction of a public servant in the discharge of duty is a cognisable offence. If the deliberate nature of the attack is proven, the accused could face additional charges of attempt to murder. The investigation will determine the appropriate sections to be invoked.
The exact motive behind the attack is yet to be confirmed, but the deliberate nature of the ramming, as described by sources, suggests the officers were specifically targeted. The possibility of involvement of organised drug networks is not being ruled out.
Further developments will be reported as the investigation progresses.
