Team Herald
CALANGUTE: Calangute residents have complained of drugs being openly sold on the roads and girls being trafficked at a disco bar in Porba Vaddo late evenings. Expressing fear of being victimised, they hesitate to complain to the authorities, who are allegedly hand-in-gloves with those conducting the illegal activities.
“Foreign nationals have been frequenting the bar with girls from other states even late nights and early morning. We noticed many illegal activities such as drug peddling and girls being involved in obscene acts along the main road. The inebriated foreign nationals have been a cause of concern for the locals, who fear to leave their houses,” said Peter D’Souza (name changed).
The locals have sought the support of local NGO ‘Save Calangute’ to put an end to the illegal activities. They fear that the foreign nationals may target their daughters and wives as they have the backing of political leaders.
“We used to go for a walk in the evenings on the road leading to Hotel Palmarinha, but now we fear to walk along the stretch as many foreign nationals speed around on their bikes. Earlier, police used to patrol the area, but now they cannot be seen. We cannot risk our lives and our children. The authorities need to stop the illegal activities immediately,” said Sangeeta, a local
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, another local said, “Surprisingly, the authorities have permitted the bar owner to violate our privacy by allowing the installation of CCTV cameras on private property, facing the balconies of local houses.”
When asked what action is being initiated against the bar, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo said, “We are contemplating action into the illegal activities.”
Save Calangute members admitted the locals approaching them and have assured their support to stop the illegalities.
