Goa police seize drugs worth over `20 lakh ahead of LS polls

PANAJI: In view of the Lok Sabha polls, Goa police have initiated a drive against drugs and other illegal activities. Drugs worth over Rs 20 lakh have been seized by the police in the last three weeks.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Parmaditya said that the border check posts have been strengthened. He said that closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been made operational at the check posts and proper checking of vehicles entering/exiting the state is also being carried out. According to police, the non-motorable roads at the borders are also being monitored by the police patrolling teams.

“As part of the drive against illegal activities, the police have seized drugs worth over Rs 20 lakh. Besides, liquor worth over Rs 2.5 crore has also been seized. Action is also being taken against matka gambling activities,” said Parmaditya.

“There is smooth coordination of all the units of the Goa police such as the anti narcotics cell (ANC), traffic, crime branch, special branch and the local police,” said Parmaditya.

Police officials have visited all the 1,652 polling booths and scrutinised security arrangements, he said. Preventive action is being initiated against a number of persons with bad characters who are likely to create a law and order problem during the election, said Parmaditya adding, “All police personnel have been briefed and review meetings are being held.”

He said various measures are being adopted to ensure a free and fair election. Director General of Police Pranab Nanda, along with senior police officials, has visited areas in North such as Pernem, Anjuna, Mapusa and reviewed preparation related to election, said Parmaditya.