In a significant development in a local narcotics case, the Additional Sessions Court in Margao has rejected the anticipatory bail plea of the main accused,Brain Co Jo Barretto(right), who continues to evade arrest. The court cited the need for custodial interrogation to uncover the full extent of Barretto’s alleged role in drug trafficking and other related offences.
Presiding over the matter, Judge Ram S Prabhu Dessai noted in the order, “I am satisfied that the custodial interrogation of the applicant is very much necessary.”
“It is needed to unearth not only the present crime but also to verify his involvement in other similar offences,” Judge Desai said.
Despite the court's ruling, Canacona Police have made little headway in tracking down Barretto, who has been absconding for the past four days. “All efforts are being made to trace him. We've alerted our sources, and I am personally following up,” said PSI Ramdas Doifode, Investigating Officer at the Canacona Police Station.
The case began with the arrest of one Khalid Rajakmiyan Sarad, who was found in possession of cocaine. During interrogation, Khalid named Barretto and Constancio Jorem Gudinho as suppliers. While Gudinho has since been arrested, Barretto remains untraceable.
A raid at Barretto’s residence led to the seizure of narcotics, weighing scales, and packaging material typically used in drug distribution. Police also confirmed a financial transaction related to the drug deal via Google Pay UPI.
Public Prosecutor J Thakkar opposed the bail plea, arguing that Barretto was a key link in the supply chain and posed a risk of committing further offences if released. The court agreed, citing the serious nature of the offence and the potential risk of the accused fleeing justice.
Barretto’s legal counsel contended that the case against him was based solely on co-accused statements. However, the court found the evidence compelling enough to establish a prima facie case.
The delay in apprehending the main accused has raised concerns about the Canacona Police's effectiveness in cracking down on the local drug network.