Team Goemkarponn
MAPUSA: Police have initiated proceedings under the Arms Act in connection with the death of a 22-year-old Mapusa resident after investigations revealed that the firearm recovered from the scene was allegedly being possessed without legal authorisation.
Samuel Braganza, a resident of Gaunsa-vaddo, was found dead from a gunshot injury during the intervening night of June 3 and 4. During the subsequent inquiry, officers recovered a country-made pistol and a spent cartridge from the location.
Investigators later determined that the weapon was not registered under any valid licence. Based on these findings, a separate offence relating to illegal possession of a firearm has now been recorded as part of the ongoing probe.
Police are currently attempting to establish how the weapon came into Braganza’s possession and whether any individual may have facilitated its acquisition. Officials said the trail of the firearm remains unclear and inquiries are continuing.
Family members questioned by investigators reportedly stated that they were unaware of the source of the pistol and had no information regarding when it was obtained.
During the course of the investigation, police also examined developments that occurred shortly before the incident. According to officials, a video allegedly showing Braganza disposing of cardboard waste in a public area of Gaunsa-vaddo surfaced online and circulated widely on social media.
Following the circulation of the footage, authorities had registered a separate case concerning the alleged dumping incident.
Investigators are also looking into reports that the youth may have experienced emotional distress in the days leading up to his death. However, police have emphasised that the circumstances surrounding the case are still being examined and that the investigation remains open.
Efforts to identify the source of the firearm and determine whether others were connected to its possession are continuing.
