Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Feb 7: Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant on Friday criticised the state police for failing to coordinate effectively against the drug mafia, questioning why authorities remain unaware of widespread drug availability despite public knowledge. Speaking at a state-level conference to disseminate the outcomes of the DGs and IGPs conference 2025, Sawant, who also holds the home portfolio, emphasised that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy on drugs.

“Why should the chief minister have to direct you and provide information to seize drugs? Coordination between ANC and police stations must improve. We cannot track drug dealers without better collaboration,” Sawant said, stressing that cracking down on the drug trade is the responsibility of the entire police force, not just the ANC.

Highlighting public awareness, Sawant added, “People in Goa openly talk about the availability of drugs. If the common man knows, then how come you do not?” He urged police to create a climate of fear among drug suppliers by acting decisively not only against large-scale dealers but also against small-time sellers across the state.

The CM referenced Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s 2026 target of a drug-free India, insisting that Goa police align with this national goal.

Goa police statistics show a sharp rise in drug enforcement activities: in 2025, 163 drug-related FIRs were registered, leading to the arrest of 212 individuals—including 32 foreign nationals—and seizures of narcotics valued at over Rs 78 crore. In comparison, 2024 saw 162 FIRs, 192 arrests, and seizures worth Rs 9.9 crore, reflecting a 700% increase in the value of drugs seized year-on-year.