Malayalam Actor Shine Alleges Drug Abuse by Many in Film Industry
Actor Shine Tom Chacko told police drug use is common in Malayalam cinema and claimed others remain unnamed. Probe expands with financial trails.
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Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko told investigators that drug consumption in the Malayalam film community extends well beyond the handful of names under scrutiny and that many performers who use banned substances remain unnamed.
Shine, whose phone has been retained by police for forensic analysis, said during questioning that “only myself and one other actor have been singled out,” while several colleagues continue to procure and consume narcotics without detection.
Investigators uncovered about 14 bank transfers ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 each. Authorities suspect these may fund drug purchases, but Shine maintains those transactions were loans to friends and crew members.
According to the actor, heightened police presence on shooting locations has made it harder to obtain illicit substances. He described a shift in the supply network that now relies on smaller amounts and quicker exchanges to evade checkpoints.
A review meeting led by Commissioner P. Vijayan will determine when Shine will face further interrogation. Though originally asked to appear on April 22, Shine requested and received approval to attend on April 21. The session proceeded without the commissioner, and officials say no additional questioning will occur until Vijayan examines the case file.
During his initial appearance, Shine underwent a medical screening after admitting to drug use. State police sources, citing a Mathrubhumi report, say they suspect the actor may have taken masking agents to skew test results, complicating efforts to confirm recent consumption.
The probe into financial records and mobile data aims to map distribution channels within the industry. Police plan to interview other figures linked by digital communications and transaction trails once the commissioner reviews Shine’s statement.
Industry insiders say the investigation could broaden as more evidence emerges, signaling potential shifts in how film sets manage security and compliance with narcotics laws. Authorities have not named other persons of interest, and no charges have been filed beyond the initial summons.
