Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the National Security Guard (NSG) successfully carried out a joint counterterrorism exercise with Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral as primary focus sites ahead of the upcoming exhibition of the holy relics of St. Francis Xavier.
“We conduct the exercise annually to evaluate our own capabilities, but the exposition made this year unique,” an officer stated.
About 400 personnel participated in the exercise, which sought to improve coordination and readiness amongst the several security operations players.
“The two churches, a government building, and a private structure—all of which are situated in North Goa—were designated as the four essential facilities for the activity. The state coastal police participated in the simulation, which was carried out both onshore and offshore, according to one officer.
Extensive preparations have been made for the deployment of their commandos at key sites, according to Goa ATS. Although the coastal police took part in the drill, a separate Goa Police unit would oversee airport security operations, with assistance from the ATS as needed.
The Goa ATS claims that they are prepared to manage crisis management and hostage negotiation scenarios, which were also included in the drill.
