Margao: Public Works Department Minister Digambar Kamat on Tuesday convened a closed-door meeting with senior police officials, including representatives of the Railway Police, to review incidents of theft and other crimes reported near the Konkan Railway station, platform areas and the isolated stretch towards Aquem.
The meeting followed a report published by The Navhind Times on Saturday highlighting concerns over thefts targeting passengers and visitors in the area.
During the meeting, Kamat directed the police to initiate stringent measures to curb crimes reported near the railway station and adjoining areas.
“It is deeply concerning that minors are involved in these thefts. Although the police recently apprehended several youths and transferred them to Apna Ghar, further action is required. During the meeting, I reviewed the situation and proposed several measures, including the establishment of a police booth on station road to ensure a consistent security presence. Had there been sufficient resources, I would have also recommended stationing a dedicated patrol vehicle at the railway station,” Kamat said. Later on Tuesday evening, Margao Town police conducted an operation using a police bus and detained around 30 persons, including suspects, beggars and people found loitering around the railway station premises. Police said inquiries are underway.
Local taxi drivers had earlier alleged that tourists and passengers arriving at the railway station were being targeted by a group of about five persons. They alleged that the group used intimidation to rob victims of mobile phones, gold ornaments and other valuables.
According to the allegations, the incidents occur along the stretch from the old railway station to Ring Road at Rawanfond, where poorly lit and isolated locations provide opportunities for such crimes.
Concerned citizens had appealed to the government, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and local MLA Digambar Kamat to intervene and improve public safety in the area.
