In a major breakthrough, North Goa Police have busted an interstate Irani gang linked to a series of gold chain snatching cases across the state, successfully solving at least four incidents. The two accused—Abbas Aslam Zaidi (34) from Thane and Sharif Shaha from Nashik, Maharashtra—were arrested on Thursday in Merces, thanks to the swift action of beat staff and alert residents.
The duo began their latest crime spree early Thursday morning by attempting to snatch the gold mangalsutra of a 62-year-old woman in Mapusa. However, their plan was foiled when bystanders raised an alarm. An intense chase ensued, ending in Merces where the suspects—riding a Maharashtra-registered motorcycle—were intercepted by Old Goa Police with the help of locals. Both men were reportedly roughed up by an angry crowd before being taken into custody.
Further investigation revealed their involvement in at least three other gold chain snatching cases reported in February and April 2025 across Bhatiwado and Carascowado in Parra, and Bamanbhat in Merces—highlighting a recurring pattern of targeted daytime robberies.
Superintendent of Police Rahul Gupta detailed the gang’s operating style: “They would enter Goa early in the morning, carry out multiple thefts during the day, and leave the state by evening. This method made it challenging for us to track them.” This hit-and-run strategy allowed them to remain under the radar for months.
The arrests are a significant step in addressing the growing concern over chain snatching in Goa. Police are now pursuing leads to identify other members of the gang and are re-examining unsolved cases that may be connected. SP Gupta praised the crucial cooperation between the police and the local community that led to the breakthrough.