Team Herald
MARGAO: Highlighting a surge in thefts, robberies, and criminal activities in and around Margao, citizens’ group Madganvcho Awaaz has sent an urgent letter to the Superintendent of Police (South Goa), seeking immediate intervention.
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The letter, dated December 30, outlines growing public anxiety and calls for decisive action to restore safety in the city.
“The spree of thefts and robberies that have taken place in the last fortnight is a matter of great concern with respect to the safety and security of the citizens,” said the group’s representative Prabhav Naik in the letter.
The organisation pointed to the CCTV footage showing criminals breaking into shops on Margao’s main roads during the early hours amid vehicular traffic.
The group claimed that the lack of night patrols and checkpoints has emboldened such acts, adding, “The Police Department has miserably failed to conduct night patrolling and nakabandis at crucial junctions,” Naik lamented.
The letter also referred to issues raised by the New Market Traders Association to the authorities, which questioned the efficiency of law enforcement. The association flagged concerns about bars and taverns operating beyond permitted hours and the unchecked proliferation of gambling dens in the area. They referred to the reports of altercations involving antisocial elements under the influence of alcohol and narcotics at the market area.
In anticipation of New Year’s Eve, Madganvcho Awaaz emphasized the need for additional security measures, noting that many residents leave their homes unattended to attend midnight masses or celebrations.
The group also called for increased deployment of police and traffic personnel at churches and chapels during midnight services to ensure public safety and prevent traffic congestion. Strict action against drunk driving and improved protection for senior citizens, especially those living alone, were also among the key demands.
“We request your immediate intervention to stop these thefts, robberies, and crimes and also to take stringent action against the anti-social elements disturbing the peace in society,” the letter concluded.
