MARGAO: South Goa residents are alarmed by a surge in robberies, with thieves targeting valuables and showing intimate knowledge of residents’ homes.
The residents feel vulnerable and have questioned the effectiveness of local law enforcement.
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The increasing frequency of these incidents, coupled with the apparent brazenness of the perpetrators, has sparked widespread concern among them.
The locals are disturbed by the thieves’ ability to locate and access specific storage areas such as cupboards and lockers where valuables are typically kept.
The residents have demanded increased security measures, including police patrolling especially during night-time hours and installing CCTV surveillance systems at key entry and exit points of villages and towns throughout the district.
The legislators have addressed the issue in the Goa Legislative Assembly, proposing similar security enhancements.
Beyond material losses, there are concerns about potential violent confrontations between residents and intruders.
Many fear for their personal safety should they encounter robbers when the theft is taking place in their houses.
The locals have urged the law enforcement to intensify preventive measures, such as tenant verification and increased vigilance in affected areas, with suggestions for police to maintain a watchful eye on suspicious movements.
They have also called for tighter border controls both on roads and at railway stations to prevent stolen goods from leaving the district.
While local police officials maintain that they are actively investigating the incidents and have solved several cases, some victims have alleged a lack of progress in their investigations.
There have been accusations that in certain instances, police officials have discouraged victims from filing FIRs. Expressing frustration, they allege that the police are not taking their cases seriously and instead are putting blame on the victims over inadequate security.
Lionel Almeida, a citizen and businessman, said, “As citizens, we’re demanding immediate action. We need increased police visibility, faster investigations, and prompt prosecution of offenders. This will send a clear message to potential criminals as it will set a deterrent. Right now there appears to be no fear of the law.”
Echoing similar sentiments, another local and homemaker Reshma Dessai called for better strategies:
Reshma said, “It’s crucial for authorities to prioritise our safety by tackling the root causes of crime. This includes addressing staff shortages and improving infrastructure. We also need top-level directives to local police stations, urging them to solve pending cases quickly. These steps are essential to rebuild public trust and confidence in law enforcement.”
