Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (SHP)

Panaji, Jun 28: This year has seen increase in the arrest of several Goans in the drug trade. In a report by the Goa police, majority of arrests that were made, several of the accused were from Goa. The statistics accumulated for the first half of the year showed 107 arrests made, out of which 27 were locals.

According to a senior police officer, the locals are being lured in with dream of earning more money. In the beginning of the year, from January to June 24, 102 narcotic cases have been booked and 107 arrests (27 Goans, 56 non-Goans, 24 foreigners) have been made across the state as compared to 91 cases registered and 84 arrests (two Goans, 76 non-Goans, 16 foreigners) made in the year 2018 for the same reason.

The anti-narcotic cell of Goa police along with Crime Branch has managed to book several cases. It was also found that substance abuse was majorly being done by the people who fell in the age group of 14 and 21. The officials also stated that in the event, if any such addicts were found, they would be sent away for rehabilitation.

The battle for drugs is tough and the Goa police has urged the local public to report instances where they find people involved in the manufacture, sale and distribution of narcotics.