MARGAO: In response to the escalating cases of thefts and robberies in South Goa over the past five months, local police stations have registered a staggering 18,189 tenant verification forms. The police are also closely monitoring ex-convicts, criminals, robbers, and thieves to combat the rising crime rates.
As a precautionary measure, each police station has compiled a database of migrant labourers as well. Lodge managers in the coastal belt have been advised to retain copies of visitors’ identity cards even after they check out. Beat staff have been instructed to maintain surveillance on the activities of visitors with the cooperation of hotel owners and managers.
A senior police officer highlighted that due to the influx of migrants in many South Goa villages, several landlords and private house owners have rented out properties to outsiders. In some instances, hardened criminals disguise themselves as labourers to carry out crime.
A retired Superintendent of Police (SP) emphasized the need for a thorough tenant verification drive. He cited instances where such initiatives have helped the police uncover gangs involved in violent robberies and kidnappings. He further emphasized that criminals tend to rent premises in prominent areas to avoid drawing attention from law enforcement, which is why the police must remain vigilant.
The South Goa district administration has mandated that no landlord, tenant, property owner, or any person within the district’s jurisdiction shall rent out any accommodation without furnishing the particulars of tenants to the relevant police in-charge. This directive has paved the way for the tenant verification drive.
