Busted: Malayalam Directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza Caught with Hybrid Ganja
Filmmakers Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza apprehended for drug ownership, granted bail as per news reports.
In a shocking late-night raid on April 27, 2025, the Excise Department in Kochi arrested popular Malayalam film directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, along with Shalif Mohammed, for possession of a whopping 1.6 grams of hybrid ganja[1][2][5]. The operation took place at a flat near the Gosree Bridge, allegedly belonging to cinematographer Sameer Thahir[1][2].
The trio was arrested around 2 a.m. and released on station bail shortly afterward[1][5]. Dive into the details of this explosive scandal that's taking the Malayalam film industry by storm.
Clues Led to the Raid
The raid followed a confidential tip-off regarding drug use at the location, and authorities discovered the illicit substance during the operation[1][2]. This bust adds to the growing concerns about substance abuse within the Malayalam film industry.
Industry Heavyweights on the Radar Once More
The arrests have reinforced the spotlight on drug-related incidents in the industry, particularly following actor Shine Tom Chacko's recent run-ins with the law[2][5]. Remember, Chacko was released on bail after an arrest on April 21 over drug allegations[2].
Career Milestones
Rahman, recognized for his work on films like Alappuzha Gymkhana (2023)[2][3], and Hamza, known for Bheemante Vazhi (2021)[5], have now found themselves embroiled in the controversy.
Broader Industry Concerns
Amid the turmoil, actress Vincy Aloshious has filed a complaint against Shine Tom Chacko for drug-related misconduct, leading the Kerala Film Body to issue a warning[2]. Vincy has vowed to shun those linked to drugs, making a bold stand for cleanliness in the industry[2].
As of the latest updates, no further charges or legal proceedings beyond the station bail have been reported[4][5]. Keep an eye on this story as it unfolds, offering a sobering reminder that even those in the limelight must abide by the law.
Terms to Know:
- Malayalam film: movies in the Malayalam language
- Malayalam cinema: the Malayalam film industry
- Hybrid ganja: a type of marijuana
- Excise Department: India's department responsible for controlling the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and other intoxicating substances
- Station bail: bail granted by a police station, which releases a suspect but requires them to return for further questions or procedures
References:
- https://www.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/cinema/malayalam-directors-khalid-rahman-ashraf-hamza-arrested-in-drugs-case-3413963
- https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/incident-kochi-hotel-alleged-narcotics-raid-leaves-shine-tom-chacko-arrested-163227
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11494620/
- https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/news/rmg-to-set-up-alappuzha-district-council-for-shooting-television-serials-and-movies/ar-AA12VJRz?ocid=msedgntp
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movies/malayalam/ashraf-hamza/videoshow/razor-razor-razor-shines-tom-chacko-s-brother-replies-to-his-drugs-accusations-with-sarcasm-74221391.cms
- In the Malayalam film industry, not only entertainment but also concerns about substance abuse are on the rise, as evident in the recent interrogation of directors Khalid Rahman, Ashraf Hamza, and Shalif Mohammed for reportedly possessing hybrid ganja.
- Following the Malayalam directors' arrest, the Excise Department's raid took place at a flat near the Gosree Bridge, which allegedly belonged to cinematographer Sameer Thahir.
- This incident has put the Malayalam film industry under the spotlight, with many heavyweights, including Shine Tom Chacko, finding themselves under scrutiny due to drug-related incidents.
- Amidst the controversy, actress Vincy Aloshius has filing a complaint against Shine Tom Chacko for drug-related misconduct, and the Kerala Film Body issued a warning, highlighting the need for cleanliness in the industry.
- Despite the arrests and allegations, as of the latest updates, no further charges or legal proceedings beyond the station bail have been reported for the directors Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza, who have made a significant impact in the Malayalam film industry with their works like Alappuzha Gymkhana and Bheemante Vazhi.
