MAPUSA
A midnight burglary attempt at Marna-Siolim turned into a dramatic chase after a CCTV security alert woke the family, dogs raised the alarm and a group of local youths chased and caught two suspected burglars near a school.
The two suspects had allegedly entered the premises armed with an iron rod and screwdriver and carrying a bag. They also tried to turn the direction of an outdoor CCTV camera, apparently hoping to conceal their movements.
However, their attempt to evade the security system backfired. The CCTV sensor sent an alert to homeowner Katrina D’Cunha’s mobile phone. Almost simultaneously, her pet dog and other dogs in the neighbourhood began barking loudly, alerting the family to the suspicious activity outside.
When family members opened the door, the suspects fled. Their escape, however, was short-lived.
Local youths on the main road spotted the two men running towards the school and immediately gave chase. They managed to corner and catch both suspects near the school before handing them over to the police.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Tuesday when the suspects allegedly entered the property from the rear. They later moved to the front of the house, where they were spotted attempting to tamper with the CCTV camera.
The suspects were allegedly carrying an iron rod, screwdriver and a bag, raising suspicion that they were preparing to break into the house.
The incident was reported to Siolim-Marna panchayat member William Fernandes, who alerted the Anjuna police. The two suspects were subsequently taken into police custody.
Fernandes credited local residents with the timely intervention that led to the suspects being caught.
“A local resident, Neville D’Souza, along with a few other youths, chased the suspects and caught them around 1.30 am. It was a courageous act, especially since the suspects were carrying instruments that could have been used to break into the house,” Fernandes said.
Preliminary information suggests that both suspects are Hindi-speaking.
The Anjuna police detained both suspects under the relevant provisions and produced them before the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Mapusa.
“Mapusa police have taken custody of both suspects. They will be interrogated and further investigation is underway,” said Anjuna PSI Navneet Goltekar.
The incident comes amid growing concern over thefts and burglaries in North Goa, particularly following recent incidents reported in and around Mapusa. The intervention by residents and local youths has also highlighted the importance of neighbourhood vigilance and functioning security systems in preventing property crimes.
