Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Apr 21: In a chilling incident that has shocked Goa’s elite neighbourhood of Dona Paula, an elderly couple from the prominent Dempo family was tied up and robbed at knifepoint by three armed intruders on Sunday night.

The victims, 77-year-old Jaiprakash Dempo and his 71-year-old wife Padmini, were alone in their bungalow when the masked robbers broke in around midnight. The attackers, armed with daggers, first assaulted the security guard outside the residence before storming into the home.

Police said the robbers tied Padmini to the bed first, followed by Jaiprakash, rendering both helpless as the gang looted the house. “Jaiprakash Dempo told us he regained consciousness to find three unidentified men standing over him,” said an investigating officer.

The crime came to light early Monday morning when the domestic help arrived for her routine work. She immediately untied the shaken couple and alerted the authorities.

Initial assessments suggest the robbers made away with valuables worth several lakhs of rupees, though an exact estimate is yet to be determined. Fortunately, the elderly couple did not suffer any physical injuries. The assaulted security guard, however, has been admitted to a private hospital for treatment.

Panaji Police have launched a full-fledged investigation, registering an FIR against unknown assailants. “We are analysing CCTV footage from in and around the property. Forensic experts have collected fingerprints and other leads from the scene,” said SP (North Goa) Akshat Kaushal.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Varsha Sharma, who is personally monitoring the investigation, said, “The suspects are being identified based on their modus operandi. We are confident the culprits will be arrested soon.”

The daring home invasion has raised serious questions about security in one of Goa’s most upscale localities.