Mapusa: Thieves targeted five shops in the Mapusa municipal market in the wee hours of Friday, decamping with cash and various items. The incident has sparked significant concern among traders in the bustling commercial hub in Bardez taluka.
Preliminary findings by Mapusa police suggest that the absence of CCTV cameras in the targeted shops facilitated the crime.
The theft came to light on Friday morning when vendors arrived to find broken locks. The affected establishments include shops dealing in decoration items, disposable goods, clothing and other merchandise.
Upon being alerted, the police rushed to the scene and initiated an investigation. Authorities are currently examining CCTV footage from nearby areas and utilising technical surveillance methods. A theft case has been registered based on complaints filed by the shop owners.
Reacting to the incident, Mapusa Merchants Association president Jitendra Falari expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of support from authorities. He said that despite repeated announcements regarding the installation of new CCTV cameras, no action has been taken.
He also highlighted that the Town Vending Committee remains non-operational due to delays in vendor verification by the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC).
Trader Pandurang Sawant echoed these concerns, stating that the MMC lacks proper records of individuals working or vending in the market. He said that despite repeated demands, vendors have not been issued identity cards, further compromising security.
Later in the evening, a delegation of Congress leaders, led by North Goa District Congress Committee president Shashank Narvekar and State Mahila Congress president Dr Pratiksha Khalap, visited Mapusa police station to review the progress of the investigation.
Narvekar noted a recurring pattern of such incidents in Mapusa, citing a similar case reported last year in the housing board area. Expressing concern over rising crimes like theft and snatching, he stressed the urgent need for enhanced police patrolling in the town.
