Goa Police Face Third Murder Mystery in Russian Women Case
Goa police find themselves grappling with a complex murder investigation. The case involves two Russian women found dead in separate locations. Authorities now confront a startling confession from the accused. Alexei Leonov claims he killed three women in the past week.
Confession Reveals Additional Victim
Leonov told police he murdered two Russian nationals and one Indian national. His disclosure has sent investigators scrambling to verify these claims. The police initially focused on the deaths of the two Russian women. They released an official statement detailing only those two cases.
The statement reads clearly. "During thorough and sustained interrogation, the accused admitted to his involvement in both murder cases." It continues to explain the investigation findings. "Further investigation revealed that accused was a close friend of both victims and the motive behind the crimes was a monetary dispute amongst them."
Police confirmed they recovered the murder weapon promptly. This provides crucial evidence for the cases. Since both victims hold foreign nationality, authorities informed the Russian Embassy. Post mortem examinations await necessary embassy approvals.
Victims Identified as Performers in Goa
Investigators identified the two Russian victims. Elena Kasthanova, aged 37, worked as a go-go dancer and wedding usher. She arrived in Goa on December 24. Elena Vaneeva, also 37, performed as a bubble artist and general performer. She came to Goa just last week.
Both women met Leonov under different circumstances. Kasthanova first encountered him in Delhi earlier this year. Leonov works as a fire display performer and entered India in 2023. Vaneeva recently became acquainted with Leonov after her Goa arrival.
The murders occurred within days of each other. Police found Kasthanova's body at her Arambol rental accommodation on Thursday evening. The FIR states Leonov assaulted her, tied her hands with rope, and slit her neck with a sharp weapon.
Vaneeva died in her Morjim rental home on Wednesday night. Investigators suspect Leonov killed her by slitting her neck with a knife. They discovered her body in the bathroom with multiple injuries.
Police Investigate Possible Assam Connection
Leonov's confession includes a third victim. He claims to have killed a 40-year-old woman from Assam. Police initially recorded this death as an unnatural occurrence on January 14. Now they actively probe any potential connection.
According to sources, Leonov described killing the Assam woman with a wooden stick. He also claims to have drugged her. Investigators treat these statements with caution. They note inconsistencies in Leonov's accounts.
One investigator explained the challenge. "There are inconsistencies in his statements. He claimed during questioning once that he had killed more women, but couldn't substantiate it." Another officer emphasized the need for verification. Leonov appears prone to exaggeration according to those familiar with the questioning.
Relationship and Motive Details Emerge
Leonov told police he maintained relationships with both Russian women. He claims to have lived with them, though investigators verify these assertions carefully. The alleged motives differ between the two cases.
For Kasthanova, Leonov reportedly suspected her of seeing another man. For Vaneeva, he cites a monetary dispute as the reason. Police continue to piece together the complete picture.
The accused appeared before a JMFC Court recently. Authorities secured a 14-day police custody remand for further investigation. The case continues to develop as police pursue all leads.
Goa police maintain their commitment to thorough investigation. They follow all established procedures while dealing with this sensitive international case. The community watches closely as more details emerge about these tragic events.
