Has the crime rate in Goa gone up in recent times, or are there just phases where a few big burglaries alarm everyone? The latter could be the case since the crime rate in Goa, in recent times, has been a little lower than before. At the last assembly session, in the monsoon, it was reported that Goa saw a 15 percent drop in crime. However, this figure doesn’t always tell us the whole story, as there has been a massive increase in murders so far in 2016.
Just recently, burglars got away with over Rs 12 lakhs in cash and gold from a house in Navelim. Over the past few years, houses across Goa, especially in the south, have been targeted. Only recently, a 65 year old lady was strangled to death in Kakoda, Curchorem. This happened at the same time as the Monika Ghurde murder, and was lost in the eventual reportage about the deceased perfumer. It’s only logical that burglaries will escalate to murder or serious violence in the future. So, what is the solution?
The police are doing their job but they cannot cover the entire state. Agreed, the government needs to seriously work on security in Goa and the police too need to reinforce their intelligence network. But, is this the time that citizens of the state start working on ideas like neighbourhood watch and other such measures? The gated communities suddenly feel a whole lot safer than houses in villages and towns.
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Crime is certainly on the rise across the state. From burglaries to thefts to pick-pocketing to other illegalities. Burglaries and break-ins have become so common now, especially along the coastal belt. We have been a victim of it too where we have had two breaks ins in our home. Additional police force, vehicles or frequent patrolling isn't the only answer. All of these have no significance if the perpetrators of the crime aren't afraid of the law. And that's the crux of the issue. Crime is on the rise because perpetrators know they we able to get away with it. We do appreciate the efforts being put in by the force but on the whole it hasn't helped in creating a sense of security. Its not only the Goa Police but the whole system which has failed us. In the face of such circumstances, its left up to us to stay vigilant, to stay aware and try and keep ourselves as safe as we possibly can.
Skitter Faia, PR Professional
We have had two burglaries at home. The thief was after money and we don’t keep any. He sat in the garden and sorted some items. The police were clueless and CCTV didn’t help. The intelligence network of law enforcement is really pathetic to be honest. As citizens we need to secure our houses and keep a lookout for suspicious people.
Hansel Vaz, entrepreneur
