Man fighting against drug abuse attacked by drug peddlers

 A 36-year-old man who used to mobilise people against drug peddling gangs was attacked by a group of people allegedly involved in the illegal business, police said today.

Jayakumar Pillai, a gym owner suffered serious injuries when he was attacked by the group on June 5.

The victim has alleged inaction on part of the police against his attackers and "the drug mafia which is operating freely in Kayamkulam-Mavelikkara area of the district targetting young school and college going students".

He also alleged that the leaders of the drug mafia were two brothers based in Mavelikkara and there was no concrete police action against them despite knowing their involvement in criminal activities by gangs controlled by them in the area.

"I was brutally attacked by members of drug mafia in my area. Their target is young school going children. I used to gather information about them and inform police. That is the reason why I was targeted. But such attacks will not dampen my spirit. I will continue my fight against the drug mafia," claimed  Pillai who is being treated at a private hospital here.

Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kayamkulam, S Devamanohar said police have identified at least seven members of a gang who allegedly attacked Pillai when he was returning home on his bike and they will be arrested soon.