Residents of Guddemol village near Sanvordem in Goa are alarmed and demanding urgent police action after two mining trucks vanished within a short span of two weeks. The incidents have left the local community, which is heavily dependent on the stalled mining industry, in distress.
Details of the Twin Thefts
The first theft occurred on the intervening night of December 23 and 24. A mining truck belonging to a Guddemol resident went missing from near a laterite quarry in a neighbouring village. The vehicle had been parked there overnight as it was scheduled for loading the next morning.
The second incident was reported on Thursday night. A villager reportedly saw someone start the truck around 2 am but did not suspect foul play. It was common for drivers to leave early to secure a good spot in the loading queue. The theft was discovered on Friday morning after the owner was informed, leading to a formal police complaint.
Community Pressure and Investigation
Frustrated by the losses, a group of villagers gathered at the Curchorem police station on Saturday. They urged the police to intensify efforts to recover both stolen trucks and identify the culprits responsible for the crimes.
Police sources stated that CCTV footage from nearby areas is being examined as part of the ongoing probe. In a revealing detail, sources indicated that the GPS tracking devices installed on the trucks had been removed before the vehicles were driven away, suggesting a planned operation.
Livelihoods at Stake for Villagers
The thefts have dealt a severe blow to truck owners who are already struggling financially. “Most truck owners from our village have been left without any source of livelihood since mining came to a halt,” a villager explained.
The situation is particularly dire for those who invested in repairing their vehicles in anticipation of mining resuming. “Some repaired their trucks after taking loans, with some even pledging their gold. Discovering that your vehicle is missing is a devastating shock,” the villager added, highlighting the emotional and economic impact of the thefts on the community.
