Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI/MAPUSA: A series of thefts reported from Mapusa and Panaji has raised concerns among local business owners, with shopkeepers alleging inadequate police action despite repeated incidents.
In the latest case, unidentified burglars targeted the “Mashallah” shop at Khadpawado in the Cuchilim area of Mapusa during the early hours of Tuesday. The culprits allegedly broke open the side entrance of the shop and decamped with approximately ₹25,000 in cash.
The incident occurred just hours after another break-in was reported at the nearby “Carasid” shop, prompting fears among residents and traders that the thefts may be part of a coordinated spree targeting commercial establishments in the area.
Mapusa Police have been alerted and are examining CCTV footage from the vicinity to identify the suspects and ascertain whether the two incidents are linked.
Meanwhile, in Panaji, burglars struck at Prasad Café restaurant after breaking the locks of the establishment’s shutter. The thieves reportedly stole cash amounting to ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 from the premises.
The restaurant owner has lodged a complaint with the police and expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of progress in the investigation. According to local traders, at least two similar thefts have been reported in the area in recent weeks, heightening concerns over the security of business establishments.
Business owners in both Mapusa and Panaji have urged the police to intensify night patrols and take swift action to prevent further incidents and reassure the trading community. Police investigations into the cases are ongoing.
