Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Panaji JMFC Court today extended the police remand of all eight accused in the assault case of social activist Rama Kankonkar, including key accused Zenito Cardozo, for two more days.
During proceedings, Zenito’s counsel objected to the extension, alleging non-compliance with Supreme Court directives regarding the grounds of arrest, and contended that proper notice of arrest had only been given to Zenito’s uncle.
The defence argued that the extension was unjustified for pending recovery of a vehicle and a mobile phone allegedly thrown into the Mandovi River following a WhatsApp call.
The Panaji police, however, maintained that Zenito had been provided with common grounds of arrest as the investigation into the organised crime unfolded. Officers said statements from the victim and witnesses are yet to be recorded.
The police also countered that objections on grounds of arrest should have been raised during the first remand, noting that the accused had already been sent to police custody once.
The court’s decision ensures continued police custody for further investigation into the attack on Kankonkar.
The Panaji JMFC Court had earlier remanded Zenito Cardozo (36) to two days of police custody in connection with the Rama Kankonkar assault case.
Panaji police arrested Zenito Cardozo on 21st September 2025 for his alleged involvement in the attack.
Addressing the incident, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant had stated that such acts of “gundagiri” will not be tolerated. He had emphasised that the government is taking a firm stand on crime and law and order, adding that most of the accused have already been arrested and will face proper and just punishment.
Goa has recorded the highest crime detection rate in the country, with over 92 per cent of cases being detected. The Chief Minister reiterated that anyone found involved in crimes will be arrested.
