Daijiworld Media Network - Margao
Margao, Oct 29: A shocking case of alleged custodial assault has surfaced in Margao, where 28-year-old Navelim youth Edberg Pereira suffered serious head injuries while in police custody. His family has accused a police officer at the Margao police station of brutally assaulting him with a weapon after chaining him, leaving him critically injured.
Edberg, who is currently undergoing treatment at the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC), Bambolim, underwent major brain surgery on Tuesday evening after doctors detected severe bleeding on the left side of his brain. His mother, Viola Pereira, alleged that her son was attacked inside the police station on October 22.
“For a moment, there was silence when we heard a loud sound. The police officer pushed me and my sister when we tried to intervene. We then saw my son lying in a pool of blood,” Viola said, breaking down as she recounted the incident.
His aunt, Lucia Pereira, said doctors had informed the family that the injuries were so severe that Edberg could suffer paralysis on the left side of his body. “Doctors have asked us to pray as the bleeding in his brain has caused serious damage,” she said.
Social activist Pratima Coutinho, who accompanied the family, condemned the alleged assault, questioning the police’s right to use violence. “Even if Edberg was under the influence of alcohol or behaved aggressively, no police officer has the right to take the law into their own hands,” she said.
Pratima further revealed that Edberg was the only son of his parents and was set to marry his fiancée soon. “This is not how a police station should operate. The CCTV footage from the Margao police station must be seized immediately to uncover the truth and identify the weapon used,” she demanded.
Meanwhile, police authorities have confirmed that the Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) involved in the incident has been suspended, but questions remain about whether a proper FIR has been registered against him.
When contacted, South Goa SP Tikam Singh, IPS, stated that a case of “causing hurt” had been filed. “The PSI has been suspended, and further action will be taken based on the medical report,” he said.
Legal experts, however, noted that mere suspension falls under departmental procedure and urged the police to clarify if criminal charges have been filed.
The case has raised serious concerns about police accountability and custodial safety in Goa, with activists demanding a transparent investigation and strict action against those responsible.
Family members continue to keep vigil outside the GMC in Bambolim, praying for Edberg’s recovery and justice for what they call a “grievous crime committed inside a police station.”