In a daring late-night burglary that has sent shockwaves through the otherwise quite tourist hub of Cavelossim, Colva police have launched an intensive manhunt for a Russian national suspected to be involved in a burglary at a Kashmiri jewellery shop three days ago.
According to police sources, the accused”believed to be part of a two-member gang”remains absconding, prompting authorities to initiate steps to issue a Blue Corner Notice in order to track and detain the suspect, particularly if he attempts to flee the country.
The incident occurred late at night when employees of the jewellery shop had briefly stepped out for dinner. Seizing the opportunity, two masked individuals allegedly entered the premises and made away with cash and valuable jewellery. However, their escape did not go entirely unnoticed. Shop employees reportedly returned during the act and caught the suspects red-handed, triggering a dramatic chase.
The duo fled the scene on a rented two-wheeler, reportedly hired from Pernem. During the chase one suspect managed to escape near Carmona, while the other sped off in the direction of Orlim. Both suspects have since evaded capture.
Colva Police Station in-charge, Police Inspector Vikram Naik, stated that the investigation is progressing steadily and that significant leads have already been established. As part of the probe, PI Naik personally travelled to Pernem, where the owner of the rented two-wheeler was identified and questioned.
“We are on the right track. A lookout notice has already been issued, and we are in the process of issuing a Blue Corner Notice. This will help ensure that the accused are intercepted at airports or other exit points if they attempt to leave the country,” Naik said.
Meanwhile, the incident has sparked concern among local stakeholders in Cavelossim. Village Sarpanch Dixon Vaz and Shack Owners Welfare Society President Cruz Cardoso visited the Colva police station along with the jewellery shop owner to take stock of the progress of the investigation.
Expressing shock over the incident, both leaders noted that Cavelossim has long been regarded as a safe, family-friendly tourist destination. “Such incidents can damage the reputation of our village. We urge the police to swiftly apprehend the accused and send a strong message that criminal activities will not be tolerated here,” Vaz said, while also commending PI Naik for swiftly identifying both the suspect and the vehicle owner linked to the case.
