MARGAO: A series of thefts were reported in six schools across South Goa, with thieves targeting valuable items, including cash and CCTV DVR systems. The incidents have raised alarm among school authorities, parents, and residents, as the police have had no breakthrough in their investigations yet.
The police are probing the possibility of a connection between these thefts, as similarities in the modus operandi suggest a coordinated effort.
In November, a theft was reported at St Jude’s High School in Betalbatim, where unknown individuals broke into the high school office, stealing the school’s CCTV DVR and around Rs 70,000 in cash.
Earlier in October, four schools—Regina Martyrum High School and Fr Basilio Andrade Memorial Higher Secondary School in Salcete, and a higher secondary school at Dapot-Mashem and Shri Shradhanand Vidyalaya School in Canacona—reported thefts, with thieves making off with cash and valuables. The incidents share similarities, leading authorities to suspect the involvement of the same group.
Colva police, responding to the complaint from St Jude’s High School, conducted an on-site investigation, including the use of a dog squad and fingerprint experts. Investigations are ongoing, with police analysing CCTV footage and sharing descriptions with law enforcement agencies across Goa and neighbouring States.
Authorities are particularly concerned about the security of schools in the district, given the repeated targeting of educational institutions. Parents and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) are urging enhanced security measures to safeguard school premises.
In the sixth reported incident, Rs 2.50 lakh were stolen from Matoshree Baburao Khandeparkar High School in Khandepar.
While parents express concern about the safety of schools, police have assured that all cases are under active investigation. The focus is on reviewing CCTV footage, analysing criminal records, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. The incidents highlight the need for heightened vigilance and security measures to protect educational institutions from such criminal activities.
