MARGAO: The strong presence of police in Goa due to the ensuing elections has resulted in a drastic drop in crimes in the State.

In Salcete, there has been no serious crime reported since the electoral process started and in the last about one week even petty crimes have stopped.

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Dinraj Govenkar this could be attributed to the strong presence of police all over the taluka where there are 30 nakabandi points where all vehicles are checked.

These points are manned by one or two personnel of Goa police who are supported by paramilitary forces. Besides, extensive police patrolling has been launched, he said, which is once again with the support of paramilitary forces.

Out of 26 companies of paramilitary forces sent to South Goa, 10 companies are stationed in Salcete itself. Each company consists of 100 personnel.

Govenkar opined that the paramilitary forces have been a great help to the Goa police who are understaffed and under tremendous pressure even during normal times.