PANAJI
In a swift response, the Panaji police traced and identified a suspect within six hours after a woman reported being sexually harassed by an unknown biker on Sunday night.
The woman took to social media on Monday morning, narrating her ordeal, alleging that an unidentified male biker exposed himself to her while they were riding their respective two-wheelers near Down The Road pub around 10:30 pm. She was accompanied by another friend on her bike.
Superintendent of Police (North) Akshat Kaushal, responding promptly to The Goan’s post on X-handle, confirmed that he is personally in touch with the victim. Special teams were formed under the Panaji police to identify the accused.
The police also asked her to lodge a complaint.“The victim has stated that she will visit the Panaji police station to file a formal complaint. She has also been informed that a lady sub-inspector can meet her at a location of her convenience. The FIR will be registered immediately,” Kaushal said.
Following this, an FIR was registered under Sections 78(2) (stalking), 75(2) (sexual harassment) and 79 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The suspect, having a serious criminal background, was also traced.
“Based on CCTV footage and coordination with the victim, we have identified the suspect. He is a resident of Tonca, Caranzalem and has a previous criminal history, including cases related to sexual harassment and POCSO. He is currently out on bail in a 2024 case,” the SP added.
