New intelligence mechanism strengthens crime detection

Panaji: The newly introduced Pro-Active Risk Identification and Surveillance Mechanism (PRISM) has helped the Goa police trace an accused in an alleged narcotics case, besides an assault on a foreigner. The mechanism functions as the intelligence fusion centre and continuous watch unit of Goa police at the crime branch, Ribandar.In the narcotics case registered at the crime branch, the investigating officer requested the fusion centre to analyse the linkages of a Nigerian national who was the accused in the case.Crime branch SP Rahul Gupta said that Prism undertook a detailed technical and analytical examination based on mobile phone data, CDR analysis, and other parameters furnished by the investigating officer.“The intelligence generated through Prism led to the identification and tracking of the second accused, who was subsequently arrested. The mechanism is also actively pursuing intelligence to trace the source of supply of narcotics to the accused, and efforts are underway to identify and act against the supplier,” Gupta said.In another case, Canacona police station sought assistance to identify a two-wheeler used by a suspect involved in an assault on a foreign national. While preliminary identification of the vehicle was carried out at the police station level, Prism undertook rapid technical verification and linkage analysis.“It was revealed that the vehicle belonged to one Sada Velip of Quepem, and further intelligence inputs identified his son, Rohan Velip. His photograph was shared with SDPO Canacona, who later confirmed him as the suspect involved in the assault case. The accused was subsequently arrested,” Gupta said.SP said that these cases demonstrate the effectiveness of Prism in integrating technology to fast-track investigations. “Within a short period since its launch, Prism has emerged as a force multiplier for the district police units in identifying criminal networks, analysing linkages, and enabling swift and focused police action,” said Gupta.The centre fast-tracks investigations by using of technical and analytical tools, and tracking through data-driven processes.