PANAJI: Siddiqui alias Suleman Khan, accused in several cases of land grab escaped from the lock up in the office of Crime Branch, Ribandar around 2:30am today. In what has left the department red-faced, an IRB constable Amit Naik facilitated his escape with both accused now absconding.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) (Land Grab) had re-arrested Khan in connection with a land fraud case, just 12 days after his earlier arrest on November 14 in another property fraud case registered at the Mapusa Police Station. This was his third arrest.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Varsha Sharma, who rushed to the CB office a while ago, told reporters that strict action including disciplinary and criminal action will be taken against those involved in the offence. An FIR has already been registered against Khan and Naik at Old Goa police station. The process to suspend the IRBn is also underway.
“A special team is formed to trace the whereabouts of the accused and arrest them,” she said.
Earlier, Superintendent of Police (CB) Rahul Gupta confirmed the incident stating the IRBn, on guard duty, unlocked the lock-up to allow Khan’s escape.
“Naik, who was on guard duty, unlocked Suleman out of custody and escaped along with him from CB using his Yamaha R15 MOTORBIKE. All efforts are underway to trace the accused persons,” he said, adding that the entire department is coordinating to achieve success at the earliest. With public places on alert, the neighbouring police have been roped-in for assistance, if any.
The CB is also conducting an inquiry, report of which will be placed before the senior officials for suitable disciplinary action against the IRBn.
“Allegations of preferential treatment to accused Suleman are baseless and false. A detailed inquiry will nonetheless be conducted by senior officials to look into administration of lock up and custody of the accused in CB,” Gupta said, replying to Congress leader Girish Chodankar’s allegations of ‘preferential VIP treatment to Khan’ and demand for an investigation.
AAP President Amit Palekar criticized the incident, stating, “Goa Police should be embarrassed to the core. This is the 'greatest escape' and highlights the incompetence of the Crime Branch and Goa Police. The Chief Minister should take action and suspend those responsible.”
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao also expressed outrage, accusing the Goa Police of eroding public trust by colluding with criminals. “The police force has become a threat to law and order. Immediate action is needed to restore accountability,” he demanded.
