PANAJI
Nearly a fortnight since the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) found itself in a storm of controversy over extortion charges, Goa Police’s ‘internal vigilance inquiry’ remains inconclusive so far.
Five personnel are facing allegations of extorting Rs 7.5 lakh cash from a businessman, who developed cold feet days after pursuing the matter with the Union Home Minister’s Office and the State government.
Director General of Police Jaspal Singh has maintained his stand that action cannot ensue in absence of a complaint. “Internal vigilance mechanisms are being followed,” he said while speaking to The Goan on the progress of the inquiry, and added, “However, in absence of a complaint or complainant, we cannot move forward except for department procedures.”
Another senior officer told The Goan that the four personnel including a head constable, who were transferred via a wireless message soon after the expose, were recently relieved from ATS and posted at Police Training School, Valpoi. “They will be attached to the PTS until the departmental inquiry concludes,” the officer said.
The businessman, who received uninvited guests in his office to ‘collect intelligence’ about his activities, had allegedly apprised the governments in Delhi and Goa about the alleged extortion. Demand for Rs 10 lakh was settled at Rs 7.5 lakh. The cash was subsequently returned to the original owner when the issue became a talking point in the department.
