Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Goa has recorded an alarming surge in job scams, with cases nearly tripling in just a year — from 15 in 2023-24 to 42 in 2024-25 — according to official crime statistics tabled in the Assembly.
The figures also show an increase in other grave offences. Reported rapes rose from 105 to 114, murders from 27 to 29, and drug-related cases from 127 to 161. Molestation complaints climbed from 116 to 120.
Theft and assault cases showed a decline, but the rise in organised fraud and violent crime underscores continuing challenges for law enforcement.
The police have intensified day-and-night patrolling using PCR vans and foot patrols, strengthened beat-level intelligence gathering, and set up Women Help Desks in police stations. Forensic evidence collection has been made mandatory in serious crimes, supported by advanced training for investigators in cyber forensics, digital evidence handling, interrogation, and legal protocols.
The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network System (CCTNS) and Inter-operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) are in active use for real-time criminal data sharing. A dedicated cybercrime helpline (1930) and AI-ML laboratory are operational to boost investigative capacity.
Police presence has been reinforced in the coastal belt with round-the-clock beach patrols, extra weekend deployments, plainclothes officers in high-footfall tourist areas, and safety signage at beach access points.
Anti-narcotics efforts include intensified patrols, activation of local informants, and awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, public transport hubs, and community spaces to counter trafficking and its financial networks.
A 24×7 Senior Citizen Helpline (1090) operates from the State Police Control Room, supported by 53 PCR vehicles, including Pink Force units dedicated to women’s safety, with more vehicles being added. Cyber safety programs are ongoing in educational institutions and workplaces to combat phishing and online fraud.
