MARGAO: Yet again, a wave of panic has gripped Salcete taluka as scammers posing as electricity department officials have been sending fraudulent messages demanding on the spot payment to avoid disconnection of power supply, creating fear and confusion among residents.
The local authorities have issued warnings to be cautious and verify any such messages directly with the department.
Several citizens have spoke to O Heraldo to highlight the issue and raise awareness among electricity consumers.
The message being sent by the scammers read: “Dear electricity user, your previous month bill is not updated and your electricity light will be disconnected at 9:30 pm.”
Earlier, in June, similar situations caused widespread anxiety among residents, with women being specifically targeted. Scammers posed as police officers and demanded ransom money under the pretext of ensuring the safety or release of their loved ones. This led to a surge in distress and confusion as families were manipulated into paying large sums.
“A few days ago in the afternoon, I received a message on my phone stating that the previous month bill was not updated and your electricity light will be disconnected,” informed Rosita Fernandes.
She further said that the message included a mobile number, instructing her to call immediately.
“When I called the given number, I was told I needed to pay Rs 5,000 to avoid the disconnection of my power supply. I was shocked, as none of my power bills are pending for payment,” said Fernandes.
Dezly Rodrigues, another resident of Raia, also informed that he received a similar message a few days ago.
“I preferred not to reply or call back, as I was very sure that the electricity department in Goa does not use such methods; instead, notices are given on the power bill itself,” he stated. Rodrigues further said that many of his friends from other villages have also received similar messages.
However, when O Heraldo tried to call the given number, it was registered in Karnataka, and a voice message in Kannada was heard.
