Team Goemkarponn
BAINA: In a suspected act of deliberate sabotage, water sports equipment at Baina Beach was damaged by unknown miscreants, causing significant losses to operators and raising concerns over safety at the popular tourist spot.
According to a complaint filed by Jose Philip Dsouza, president of the Baina Beach Water Sports Association, the incident occurred during the intervening night of Tuesday when unidentified persons trespassed into the premises where the equipment was kept. The association stated that a jet ski was rendered completely non-functional after sugar was allegedly poured into its engine, causing severe internal damage.
In the same incident, a banana bumper used for rides was also damaged, reportedly with a sharp object such as a blade. The association pointed out that although equipment belonging to other operators was stored at the same location, only their property was selectively targeted, indicating a planned and malicious act.
“The damage caused is not only financial but has also directly impacted the livelihood of several members dependent on water sports activities,” Dsouza said, adding that such acts create a negative impression among tourists visiting the beach.
The association has demanded immediate installation of CCTV cameras at Baina Beach to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure safety of both tourists and operators. “There is an urgent need for surveillance to deter anti-social elements and safeguard beach activities,” Dsouza stated.
The matter has been brought to the notice of the Mormugao Harbour Police, and further investigation is expected to identify those responsible for the act.
