Cops intensify hunt for Margao jeweller attacker

Margao: Four days after a masked man attacked jeweller Sohan Raikar at Borda in the state’s commercial capital, police have intensified their search, now extending beyond Goa.

The attack occurred on July 22 around 6.30pm at Borda, Margao, when the masked assailant approached Raikar under the pretext of remaking his mother’s jewellery. The assailant then struck him with a hammer and fled, dropping a knife. Raikar escaped with minor injuries.

Police said the accused has been identified from closed circuit television (CCTV) footage. “We have circulated his images to all police stations in Goa as well as to police stations in the neighbouring states,” a police officer said.

Police sources said the assailant spoke fluent Konkani, suggesting he is local, but they suspect he may have slipped out of the state. They also said the crime branch has joined the Fatorda police, forming two special teams to nab the assailant. They are tracking the suspect’s phone and questioning local witnesses.

Police said they are exploring all angles, but the motive—whether it was a botched robbery attempt or something else —remains unclear.

The incident has rattled Margao’s trader community. Several shop owners in the area said they are now more cautious about unknown customers, especially after evening hours.

Police are tight-lipped about investigation details but are confident. “It’s just a matter of time before the accused will be nabbed,” a police officer said.