Team Herald
CALANGUTE: Residents of Calangute have expressed frustration over the persistence of touts and illegal vendors, stating that despite police crackdowns, offenders return the next day. They have urged authorities to conduct daily raids to curb illegal activities along the beach.
“The police are doing a good job by taking the touts and illegal vendors into custody and fining them. But the same people are back again the next day. They're taken to the police station and fined Rs 5,000, yet they return back . The fine should be doubled for repeat offences,” locals said.
Continuing their crackdown on illegal businesses, Calangute police on Thursday detained several illegal vendors and touts from the beach promenade. Meanwhile, the tourist police unit apprehended two suspicious individuals allegedly attempting to steal tourists' bags on the beach. The suspects were later handed over to Calangute Police for further action.
The Police staff interacted with tourists, creating awareness about dos and don'ts, and made aware about illegal touts. Public announcements were also made at Calangute and Baga beaches, advising tourists to take safety precautions while availing water sports activities. Local businessmen were requested to maintain polite behavior with customers.
Adequate Police deployment has been ensured at all static points in the jurisdiction of Calangute Police Station to prevent any untoward incidents.
The drive was conducted by Calangute Police Station, led by PI Paresh G Naik and PI tourist unit Jatin J Potdar.