Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa has witnessed three major dacoities in the past six months, including Tuesday’s violent incident in Baina, leaving residents anxious and police forces stretched. While investigators have managed to apprehend facilitators involved in two of the cases, the prime suspects—believed to be Bangladeshi nationals—continue to evade arrest. Police sources say the pattern of execution in all three crimes shows striking similarities.
In the latest Baina case, a group of around seven masked assailants stormed a residence, attacked the family members, and fled with silver ornaments and cash. The bold intrusion has reignited fears among the public, especially as it mirrors previous violent break-ins.
Residents say the rise in such crimes is deeply unsettling. Porvorim resident Audrey Pinto noted that the surge in dacoities has created widespread distress, particularly among elderly citizens. “Senior citizens are highly vulnerable. Ensuring a fear-free environment is crucial for their mental well-being,” she said, adding that stronger surveillance and policing could act as a deterrent.
One of the earlier cases dates back to April, when an elderly couple from the prominent Dempo family endured a harrowing ordeal. Three armed intruders, wielding daggers, forced their way into the Dona Paula residence, assaulted the security guard, and held 77-year-old Jaiprakash Dempo and his 71-year-old wife, Padmini, captive by tying them to their bed. The robbers ransacked the home for nearly four hours before escaping.
The recurring nature of these attacks has intensified pressure on law enforcement agencies to track down the masterminds and restore a sense of security across the state. Further investigation is underway to determine possible links between the incidents.
