Team Herald
PANJIM: Traffic policemen on duty will now have to be doubly alert as they can be challenged on the amount of cash they have on their person at any given point of time.
Taking note of an increasing number of complaints against traffic police on enforcement drive involved in malpractices, the traffic cell of Goa Police has appointed Police Inspector Pradeep Velip as Vigilance Officer to keep watch on officers on duty across the State.
The Vigilance Officer is assigned to check officers involved in malpractices such as demanding bribes from motorists. The officer can randomly check any traffic police on enforcement duty on the road by checking the cash in their possession and checking this amount against the entry of cash made at the personal cash register maintained at the respective traffic cell.
Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Devesh Kuma Mahla (IPS) issued the order earlier this month appointing Velip as Vigilance Officer.
“Several complaints are being received against traffic staff for indulging in malpractices, thereby tarnishing the image of Traffic Police. Hence, to keep a check on Traffic Personnel performing enforcement duties at various locations throughout the State of Goa, Pradeep R Velip, PI Notice Branch is designated as Vigilance Officer,” the order states.
Goa has been getting a bad name on social media following negative comments and postings by tourists who have faced a difficult time with the traffic police during their visits to the State.
In the order, Mahla stated that the Vigilance Officer shall randomly check traffic staff deployed for enforcement duties and ensure that staff is not involved in any malpractice. Mahla has asked the Vigilance Officer to report to him immediately if any officer is found involved in malpractices.
Traffic Cell has also designated a vehicle to carry out the task in an efficient manner and also asked that staff from Notice Branch of Traffic Cell be used whenever required.
