We are a German-Brazilian couple, living in Nürnberg Germany. After a 2-week round trip through India we are relaxing now 4 days in Goa.
We rented an Enfield Bullet bike in Panaji and are doing trips from our Hotel throughout Goa.
On October 28 we decided to drive to Palolem. A few kilometers after Panaji, near Bambolim, there is a police checkpoint. We passed there around 11:45 am. We were both wearing helmets, not because of the law but we believe in safety.
Being the only bike with driver and passenger wearing a helmet the police officer easily recognised us tourists and potential victims. He stopped us and makes me come into his blue office cabin so no one can see us. Then he comes up with a shady story that my license is not valid. In fact my license is valid and even has multiple languages.
He asks "what about penalty?" and demands money. After paying my wife demands a receipt so not to be asked for money again on the next police checkpoint. The officer refuses to issue a paper receipt and writes it on my hand instead (see photo). My wife tells the officer that this money is obviously for his private pocket Before the situation escalates I decide it is better to leave the scene and continue to Palolem.
This conduct by police officers towards foreign tourists gives a bad impression about India.
Frank Hessing & Lucila A Hessing, Germany
