Team Herald
PANJIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday chaired a high-level meeting with all security agencies operating in Goa and senior government officials to review operational arrangements and reinforce inter-agency coordination amid evolving security concerns.
The meeting, held at Mahalaxmi, Altinho, focused on improving coordination among multiple agencies to enhance the state's efficiency and preparedness to respond to emerging threats. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Chief Minister stated, "Chaired a meeting at Mahalaxmi, Altinho with all security agencies in the State and senior officials to review operational arrangements and reinforce inter-agency coordination for enhanced efficiency and preparedness."
A statement issued by the Goa Police noted that, in view of the current security scenario, the police force has proactively implemented various measures to bolster the state’s security framework. These include coordination meetings across all levels — from District Superintendents of Police and the Director General of Police to the Chief Minister — involving representatives of the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
Preventive actions have been ramped up across Goa, with ongoing tenant and servant verification drives, foreigner verification, and checks on suspicious individuals. These operations are being conducted particularly in and around vulnerable areas and vital installations.
The police statement further added that visible police presence has been increased around key sites and the coastal belt. Plans for special naka points and the deployment of Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been finalised, alongside intensified checks at border posts to deter the entry of anti-national elements.
Additionally, the police are actively monitoring social media to identify and prosecute individuals and accounts spreading misinformation or fake news.
The enhanced measures are part of the government’s efforts to maintain peace and security across the State in light of recent developments.
Drone operations banned in S Goa
Margao: The South Goa District Collector has imposed a complete ban on the operation and use of drones or any Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) across the entire jurisdiction of South Goa with immediate effect.
The order comes in the wake of heightened internal security concerns and potential threats to civilian safety and critical infrastructure, especially due to escalating tensions along the international border. Invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the District Magistrate Egna Cleetus, IAS has prohibited the flying of drones of any size or category, citing the need to prevent danger to human life and to safeguard the state’s security.
The order directs all Deputy Collectors and Sub-Divisional Magistrates in the district to monitor and verify any violations. In cases of non-compliance, they have been instructed to file FIRs and lodge complaints before the concerned judicial magistrate and local police stations.
Fishermen urged to follow
protocols amid security alert
PANJIM: Amid heightened coastal security measures, fishermen in Goa have been advised to fish only within 12 nautical miles of the state’s territorial waters.
As part of the precautionary protocols, vessel owners are required to submit crew details to their local fisheries officers, obtain fishing passes, and ensure their vessels’ transponders remain active while at sea.
Authorities have also urged fishermen to report any suspicious activity at jetties and to fully cooperate with officials to maintain maritime safety and security.