MAPUSA: To protest the daylight murder of the Margao-based jeweller Swapnil Walke on Wednesday, Goa Jewellers Association North Goa kept their shops closed on Thursday.
Pointing to the number of crime incidents such as thefts and even murders, which have been reported since the year 2000, the Association said there is no security to the jeweller community from the police department.
“However, by acting swiftly in this murder case and by giving severe punishment to the culprits, the police department should set an example that no one can easily attack or rob any jeweller henceforth,” said the association.
“Today the jeweller community is targeted tomorrow; it can be anyone who deals in huge amount of money. We demand strict and continuous patrolling by the police throughout the day all over the State to avoid more such incidents, said Harish Nasnodkar, Secretary of GJA.
“We also request the jewellers to update their CCTV surveillance. Those who haven’t yet installed it please do so immediately,” Nasnodkar appealed.
“The jeweller community has become a soft target for robbers since there is no proper protection provided by the police department to the jewelers. We have trust in the government and police but we request the government to tighten the law and order in the State”, said, Samir Kudtarkar Vice President of GJA.
“Police patrolling is required especially at the time of opening and closing of shops and particularly with shops in isolated areas as these are the type of shops criminals keep their eyes on. We also request the government to simplify the procedure of availing gun license for jewellers since it is used in self protection”, Sameer added.
