Through the columns of this reputed newspaper, we, the villagers of Siolim-Sodiem, wish to draw your urgent attention to the rampant drug trade in our village—a menace that continues unchecked while political leaders and village elders preferring to turn a blind eye.
Almost every evening, as dusk sets in, a tall masked man of controversial foreign nationality—nicknamed the “Black Devil” by villagers—frequents the quiet lanes of Aframent and Maina Vaddo on a black colour numberless bike. He delivers his consignment to young buyers and disappears within minutes, with cash and drugs exchanged swiftly. Many local youth, and even outsiders, are now runners for this dealer. The cemetery road in Sodiem has apparently turned out to be his favourite trading ground given the fact that it is sparingly used at nights.
While most grassroots leaders remain silent, only our Deputy Sarpanch, Nilu Vaigainkar, dared to raise his voice after witnessing the dealer selling contraband in Aframent. The dealer reportedly argued with him but fled upon noticing that Vaigainkar was accompanied by a fierce pit bull. In his haste, two sachets of white powdery substance fell, which were later handed over to the police about a month ago. Yet, the authorities seem to be dragging their feet for reasons best known to them.
This trade has already claimed several young lives through overdoses, while others have been reduced to addicts. The lure of easy money is pulling our youth deeper into this vicious circle. Despite repeated discussions in gram sabhas, no concrete action has followed. Alarmingly, the dealer is still seen frequenting a local washing station in Sodiem and moving freely around the village.
Madam, Goa’s future is at stake. If this continues, our beautiful village will be reduced to yet another drug hub. We strongly urge the Anti-Narcotics Cell under your command to keep close surveillance on this dealer, identify his hideouts, and swoop down on him before more lives are lost.
We believe in your reputation as a no-nonsense officer and count on you to clamp down on this menace with an iron hand. At the same time, we villagers pledge to cooperate fully with the police. If we fail to act now, it is our own children whose lives will be destroyed.
It is time to nip this evil in the bud—before it is too late.