MARGAO/SANGUEM
A casual Sunday outing turned into a chilling tragedy in the quiet hinterland of Cazur village in Quepem, after a young girl was fatally shot during what was meant to be a friendly gathering.
The victim, 22-year-old Tanvi Gadi from Sanquelim, died on the spot after a bullet struck her in the neck. According to police, the incident occurred when a group of friends, associated with Vishranti Gawde from Sanquelim, had visited Cazur. Vishranti’s sister is married in the village, and the group had gathered there for a casual outing.
According to police, some members of the group entered a hut-like structure where a 12-bore firearm was kept -- such weapons are often used in rural areas to protect crops from wild animals. During this time, Sweth Gawde, a youth from Sanquelim, allegedly handled the gun when it suddenly discharged.
South Goa Superintendent of Police Santosh Desai confirmed that preliminary inquiries revealed that Sweth Gawde was handling the weapon. The firing may have been accidental or the result of negligent handling. However, investigators are also examining claims that the firearm may have been pointed at the victim in a playful manner before it went off.
The impact was fatal, with the bullet hitting Tanvi in the neck, leaving her no chance of survival.
Police reached the scene shortly after, secured the area, and recovered the weapon. Quepem Police Station in-charge, PI Desai, confirmed that a case of murder has been registered against Sweth Gawde in connection with the incident. He said the police is investigating into the question whether the firearm was licensed or not.
Tanvi’s body has been preserved at the Hospicio South Goa District Hospital for post-mortem examination, and the report is awaited.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the locality, raising serious concerns about the presence and careless handling of firearms during private gatherings. Further investigations are ongoing.
It may be recalled that earlier this month, Quepem police had arrested one Ram Velip from nearby Caurem village for allegedly firing a gun into the air while threatening family members over a dispute related to a public tap.
