Expressing grave concern over the surge in illegal prostitution, human trafficking, and extortion rackets in coastal areas, a delegation of Congress functionaries from Benaulim submitted a formal complaint to the Colva Police Station on Friday.
The group, led by Keith Gracias, President of the Indian National Congress (INC) Benaulim Block, along with Solan Furtado, Vice President and Venesia Carvalho, member of the INC Nuvem Block, met with the Colva Police Inspector to demand immediate intervention against what they described as “an alarming rise in organised rackets” in and around Orlim and the Benaulim constituency.
The complaint, submitted by Gracias, cites a series of recent incidents — including an extortion racket reported on September 28 and a police raid on October 7 by the Superintendent of Police (South Goa), which led to the rescue of nine trafficked girls. The letter underscores that these are not isolated cases but part of a disturbing pattern affecting the safety of women and tarnishing the reputation of Goa’s coastal villages.
Calling for “urgent and sustained action,” the delegation pressed the police to conduct a crackdown on parlours, guesthouses, and establishments allegedly engaged in or facilitating trafficking and prostitution. They also urged enhanced patrolling, intelligence strengthening, and strict legal measures against those enabling such networks.
“The safety and dignity of our women and girls cannot be compromised,” the complaint states, warning that unchecked illegal activity is not only eroding local security but also “damaging the image of Goa as a safe and family-friendly tourist destination.”
The delegation urged the police to respond with a clear action plan and follow-up to reassure residents that their concerns are being taken seriously.
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