HERALD: Questions have been raised about the police efficiency in view of incidents such as the sword brandishing at Curti, prostitution, matka, late night party at Arpora and other criminal activities. What is your take?
SHOBHIT SAXENA: Curti was a one-of incident and the police was quick to act against the offenders. An Arms Act case was registered and all the persons involved were arrested. We have been successfully cracking down on prostitution and drug trafficking, which is evident through our current records. In the last one month over 2 kg of drugs have been seized, five victims of trafficking have been rescued and as many traffickers have been placed under arrest. Goa Police has zero tolerance towards organised crime and strict action even during pandemic against all illegal activities is a testament to our commitment. With respect to parties, we have in the past as also in the Arpora incident, registered cases and booked the offenders. The investigation in the Arpora case is also underway. Maintaining law and order and prevention of crime is our top priority.
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HERALD: Zenito Cardozo had reportedly made attempts to surrender before finally appearing at Police Head Quarters. Did the police fail to track him despite massive search operations and interrogation of suspects?
SAXENA: I think it was a great success of Goa Police that wanted criminals to give up their run against the law. It shows that Goa Police has instilled fear of the law in the criminals. It was a result of the efforts that Goa Police had made in the gang war case. Over 20 persons have been arrested, several more questioned. Coordination with neighbouring States was ongoing. The court had seen merit and rejected bail applications. Process of obtaining warrants and proclamation was underway. All this has resulted in a strong case against the accused persons based on scientific evidence and absolutely professional policing by Goa Police. This case only proves the futility of an attempt to abscond from the law.
HERALD: Is it true that few policemen have either direct or indirect links with Zenito? Has the department inquired into this allegation?
SAXENA: No such allegation has come to light. The professional investigation and dedication of the police in the case shows that such a situation is not possible.
