Colva police trace supply to scrapyard worker, arrest three and detain 11 as probe widens
Colva police, along with activist Fidol Pereira, during an inspection at the Seraulim scrap yard on Wednesday.
MARGAO
A vaping incident involving three school students has led to a wider police investigation, resulting in multiple arrests and detentions and the discovery of a large scrap yard operation in Seraulim.
According to police sources, the case came to light after three students were caught vaping on school premises and subsequently faced disciplinary action, reportedly including suspension. The development prompted concern among parents, with one student’s father approaching the Colva Police to report the matter and share crucial information about the source of the vaping substances.
Acting swiftly on the tip-off, a team from the Colva Police Station, led by Police Inspector Vikram Naik, launched an investigation. Preliminary inquiries revealed that the vaping material had allegedly been supplied by an individual working at a scrap yard in Seraulim.
Following this lead, police conducted a raid at the location. During the operation, three individuals were arrested for their alleged role in supplying vaping substances to the students. “We are verifying the clues provided by the accused and are working to identify the larger network involved in supplying such substances to school students,” PI Naik stated.
While conducting the raid, police also discovered what they described as a “massive” scrap yard functioning at the site. Suspecting irregularities in its operation, authorities detained an additional 11 individuals under preventive measures.
The discovery has raised serious questions about the legality of the scrap yard. Social activist Fidol Pereira has called for an immediate and thorough inquiry into the operation. She announced plans to approach the South Goa District Collector, urging authorities to investigate whether the facility is complying with mandatory legal requirements such as conversion sanad, construction permits, and other regulatory clearances.
The incident has sparked concern among residents and parents alike, highlighting not only the growing issue of vaping among students but also potential lapses in monitoring unauthorised commercial activities in the area.
