Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Aug 29: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday said shooting incidents would not be tolerated in the state and assured that those responsible for the attack on Casino Majestic director Shrinivas Nayak and his security guard would be arrested soon.

Addressing the media, Sawant said the motive behind the attack would also be established and directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to apprehend the accused at the earliest.

"Such kind of attack on a businessman is not right and won't be tolerated, especially in Goa. Within a short span of time, the investigation will reveal who is behind the crime and the motive," he said.

Sawant said the government and police would take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents. He described Friday's shooting as the first such open shootout reported in Goa in the last eight years.

A full-fledged investigation has been launched to identify the attackers and trace those allegedly involved in supplying the firearms used in the crime.

Police suspect that the shooters could be "supari killers" from outside Goa and are yet to establish their whereabouts. An abandoned car bearing a Goa registration number has also emerged as an important lead in the investigation.

The incident occurred on Friday evening when two armed men allegedly opened fire at Nayak and his security guard near the entrance of Casino Majestic.

According to police, the assailants had been waiting near the parking area and approached Nayak as he reached his vehicle before opening fire at close range.

Six rounds were fired during the incident — three by the attackers and three by Nayak's security personnel in retaliation.

Nayak and his security guard escaped the attack unhurt.

Police are continuing efforts to identify and apprehend the assailants and determine the motive behind the shooting