the goan I network
VASCO
Security exercises and mock drills are routinely conducted in the State to test the preparedness of security agencies, but be prepared if the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) takes its own sweet time to reach a site while tackling a real terrorism incident.
The dilapidated jeeps provided to the ATS, a special police force deployed in the state to combat terrorism, are in such bad state that travelling in the vehicles has become more of a challenge than the patrolling duties entrusted to the sleuths.
Photos of ripped seat covers, broken seats, damaged spare tyres, rusted gears, broken wipers and the bad condition of the ATS jeep recently went viral on social media, highlighting the shocking condition of jeeps allotted to the Goa ATS.
A particular photo had also revealed that a plank was put on a seat as the seat cushions had completely worn out and seat had been damaged.
The ATS was set up after several terrorist attacks in the country and was given the task of tackling terror situations, monitoring internal intelligence, conducting hostage rescues and coordinating with central information agencies.
Speaking to The Goan, sources said the ATS section had been demanding proper vehicles for a long time.
“However, the government is yet to give the ATS proper jeeps. Such is the condition of the ATS jeep that it starts vibrating if the speed exceeds 50 kmph. In emergency situations, this vehicle will not be able to follow even a layman, let alone a terrorist,” remarked the source.
“Recently, the ATS was assured of new vehicles, but sadly the new vehicles were handed over to senior police officials, while some were allotted to highway patrols and tourism police department.”
“Though all vehicles belonging to police department are inspected regularly for fitness, the Goa ATS is still forced to use these unfit vehicles despite being given the mammoth task of combating terrorism,” the source added.
The ATS Goa was in the news in 2016 when a private member resolution moved by Leader of Opposition Pratapsingh Rane had demanded a well-trained Anti-Terrorist Squad due to the present world situation of terrorism.
“Terrorism has become order of the day. We find that most unsuspecting places are being attacked. We can’t be sleeping. We are a tourist state,” Rane had said.
