Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa’s Director General of Police, Alok Kumar, has dismissed claims that organised crime syndicates are operating in the state, describing recent incidents as isolated and localized.
Speaking on local channel programme, Kumar clarified that events such as the recent Mungul-Margao clash involved local groups only, and do not signify the presence of gang wars in Goa.
He added that over 20 people have been arrested in connection with the incident, with further arrests expected.
Kumar acknowledged attempts by outsiders to establish criminal networks in the state but assured that intelligence-led policing is keeping such threats under check.
Commenting on the recent arrest of an ISIS operative in Goa, he noted that the individual had only sporadically stayed in the state over the past decade, and credited the police’s effective local intelligence and inter-agency coordination for the apprehension.
To strengthen security, the Goa Police are planning collaboration with the hospitality sector for a real-time information-sharing system to track suspicious individuals.
Additionally, a new tenant verification app will be introduced, assigning unique IDs to tenants to create a centralized database and streamline verification processes.
Addressing public concerns about police misconduct, Kumar stated that while no major rise in complaints has been recorded, the department maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy.
He highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance police accountability and well-being, including daily briefings and programs on physical and mental health under the guidance of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
The DGP concluded by reassuring citizens that Goa remains free from organised crime syndicates, with law enforcement actively monitoring and preventing potential threats.
