Threatened by a history reporter over a parking problem, the shooters use a sporting weapon to fire warning shots

Panaji: A journalist has been arrested for allegedly threatening three sportsmen during a dispute over parking, a Goa police official said on Saturday.

The incident took place at Karaswada junction in Mapusa late on Friday night and the shooters had to fire a training weapon to escape from the spot after being threatened by accused Shailesh Garad, Superintendent of Police (North) Akshat Kaushal said.

“Three shooters, who are participating in the upcoming National Games, had stopped after an event to eat at a restaurant. Garad, who is facing seven charges including attempt to murder, argued with them over parking. He also damaged their car with a brick,” the SP said.

“One of the shooters took out his air pistol and fired in the air, which created a huge noise that scared Garad. The three shooters managed to escape from there. Efforts are on to nab Garad,” he said.

Asked whether shooting with such sporting weapons was permissible, the SP said the police were studying the legal aspect and would take action accordingly.

The shooters, aged 17 to 21, one of whom is disabled, said the shooting happened because they were feeling “panicked”, the SP added.