THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
In a significant breakthrough, Calangute Police have apprehended Azeez Asif (32), a notorious history-sheeter from Malekote-Karnataka, who has been implicated in a string of criminal activities across Goa and Karnataka.
The accused, known for targeting tourists in Calangute, has been involved in a series of snatching incidents in the area.
Over the past several days, Azeez Asif was reported to have committed five separate snatching cases, preying on tourists and stealing their valuables while using a two-wheeler.
During interrogation, the accused admitted to additional crimes within the jurisdiction of the Anjuna Police Station.
Police reports reveal that Azeez Asif is a habitual offender, with over 20 cases of theft and snatching recorded against him in both Goa and Karnataka.
His criminal history includes a previous arrest by the Calangute Police in 2019 for theft, as well as arrests by the Saligao Police and Anjuna Police in 2021 for separate snatching cases.
In 2022, while in judicial custody at Central Jail Colvale, the accused was also involved in an assault on a fellow inmate, further adding to his criminal record.
The team, led by Head Constable Vidhyanand Amonkar, including Police Constables Amir Garad, Vijay Naik, Bhagwan Palyekar, Ganpat Tiloji, Raj Parab, and Pranay Gawas, tracked down the suspect. Most of the stolen property was recovered.
Further investigations are ongoing under the supervision of Calangute Police Inspector Paresh Naik, SDPO Porvorim Vishwesh Karpe, under the overall supervision of SP North Akshat Kaushal (IPS).
