PANAJI:
Ahead of the forthcoming exposition of the sacred relics of St. Francis Xavier, a joint counter-terrorism exercise was successfully conducted by the Goa Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in collaboration with the National Security Guard (NSG) with Basilica of Bom Jesus, and Se Cathedral as key focus areas.
“We hold the exercise every year to assess our own capabilities but this year was special because of the exposition,” said an officer.
The exercise, which involved approximately 400 personnel, aimed to enhance the preparedness and coordination among various stakeholders involved in security operations.
“Four vital installations were identified for the exercise, including the two churches, a government building, and a private structure, all located in North Goa. The drill was conducted both offshore and onshore, incorporating the involvement of the state coastal police,” said an officer.
Goa ATS confirmed that elaborate arrangements have been made for the deployment of their commandos at critical locations. While the coastal police participated in the exercise, security operations at the airports will be managed by a different unit of the Goa Police, with the ATS providing support as necessary.
The exercise also included scenarios for crisis management and hostage negotiation, with the Goa ATS asserting that they are equipped to handle such situations effectively.
