PANAJI
An unexpected streak of crimes that shook South Goa -- including two incidents of gunfire, assault on police and extortion bid -- incidentally ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, has prompted the police to move with unusual aggression.
In a bid to restore order, police stations have begun rounding up history-sheeters, detaining even those linked to gangs in scuffles, and, in an unusual move, holding them in custody till the festival is over.
All this is with the aim to send an unmistakable signal: the streets belong to law enforcement, not to rogue elements. The police want this message to carry not just firmness but a certain ‘swag’ of authority.
“The one clear message to goons or gangs who dare to take law into their hands is this: only the police have the legitimate and legal right to use force. Anyone else attempting it will face the severe legal consequences. Goa police owns the streets (for the good of the people and to maintain law and order), and no one else,” Director General of Police Alok Kumar told The Goan in his first interview since the wave of crimes in South Goa.
Reacting to these recent incidents, the DGP said cases have been registered and investigations are moving at a rapid pace. More than 35 people have been taken into custody so far, a number that police officials expect will rise as the crackdown intensifies.
“The investigation is progressing swiftly, and strict legal action is being taken against all those involved... You have seen the demonstrative action we can take and trust me, the Goa police is going to dominate all areas from where such notorious elements come,” Kumar said.
Although the flare-up was concentrated in South Goa, the police are widening their net across the State. Foot patrols, blockades, and surprise checks have been scaled up in all jurisdictions headed by senior officers.
“There is no area-specific limitation in the ongoing crackdown. The entire State is under close watch, with preventive measures and increased surveillance to ensure public safety and deter criminal activity,” the DGP added.
As part of this drive, officers are scrutinising criminal records and re-opening old files to identify repeat offenders. New history sheets are being drawn up while externment proceedings and preventive detentions are being taken to avert any disturbance to public peace.
He further said the goal was not only to crack down on crimes but also to restore public confidence in policing. “I fully mean it and will spare no effort. Whatever it takes to galvanise the force will be done. I want the Goa police to walk proudly and with swag,” he said as he sought to inject both firmness and morale into the force.
