the goan I network
MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday told the House that the kingpin involved in the drug trade in the State was yet to be identified, but said the government was leaving no stone unturned to tackle the narcotic menace in the State.
He also said that the detection rate of crime involving drug trade has gone up.
“The main supplier has not been identified yet. Whenever persons involved in drug business are arrested, detailed investigations are carried out to find out the main dealer. The anti-narcotics cell is continuing with its investigations,” Sawant said.
The chief minister was responding to a barrage of questions from the ruling and opposition members about the ineffectiveness of the police in tackling the drug menace in the State.
Firing the first salvo, Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat said it was common knowledge that only insignificant people were arrested during a drug raid and the main culprits go scot-free.
“You have to find the root cause of the problem. Who is supplying the drugs? Why are police not investigating to find out who are the main suppliers in the chain?” Kamat asked.
He further said that an impression has been created that only foreigners were involved in the drug trade, but a large number of Indians arrested in the last three years clearly indicate that Goan youth were also lured into the trade.
Acknowledging the member’s concern, Dr Sawant said that not only foreigners but Goans in the age group of 20 to 35 years were drawn to the narcotic business.
“The government is viewing the issue very seriously and taking all measures to curb the menace,” he said.
He further urged the
parents to act responsibly and keep an eye on their children.
Joining the debate, Panaji MLA Babush Monserrate blamed the police for the sorry state of affairs.
“Your police are not serious, chief. They are hand-in-glove with the drug traders,” Monserrate said referring to the drug seizure carried a couple of days ago in Campal along with the CCP mayor.
The chief minister assured the House to take action against drug dealers and sought cooperation of MLAs.
“Drugs issue is not something that has cropped up overnight. But we are very serious on it. I will not leave anyone. Even if you have a doubt over any policeman, let me know. I will take action,” Sawant said.
He informed the House that around Rs 1.54 crore worth of drugs seized in the last two years were yet to be disposed off and further assured to dispose off the consignment within the next six months.
Curtorim MLA Alexio Reginald Lourenco and Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte also spoke on the issue.
