Panaji, Jun 21 (TOI): With investigations into the mining scam having picked up pace, the special investigation team (SIT), which presently comprises just two police inspectors (PI) and one sub-inspector (PSI), has requested the Goa Police for more manpower.

Specially constituted in August 2013 to probe illegal mining cases, the SIT started off with four inspectors and one sub-inspector, who were placed under direct supervision of the deputy inspector general of police (DIG). Around 1.5 years ago, however, its investigative team was reduced to just one PI, until recently.

Crime branch superintendent of police (SP) Priyanka Kashyap has now requested for more officers for both, the SIT and the crime branch, as both are understaffed.

Of a total of 16 cases of illegal mining, six are being probed by the SIT, another six have been chargesheeted, five are under investigation and the rest have been referred to the police stations concerned.