Crime Branch Steps in, Goa Politician to Be Charged with Rape of Russian Girl

In the case of an alleged rape of a Russian woman by a Goa politician, the police crime branch has stepped in for investigation following the victim’s statement that she was being forced to dilute her charges, for her attacker was well connected.

The crime branch took fresh statements both from the victim and the accused. Goa politician John Fernandes will now be charged for rape and not merely for attempt to rape. Besides, his bail plea will be opposed by the police.

Reports said that medical report suggests 13 injury marks on the victim’s body, hinting at a probable struggle. The victim’s medical report also showed bruises on her body.

However, Fernandes could not be arrested till Monday, the day his bail plea was to be heard. He had stayed away from the media since the case came to light.

Victim’s friend, another Russian, who was with the victim on the night of rape, denied the charges of rape labeled by the victim.

“No rape took place, and John Fernandes dropped us home in his car. I was with her till she was dropped home,” she said in an affidavit.

Her statement made in the affidavit came amid victim’s allegations that she was under pressure to dilute the case. She said that the police told her not to continue with the case since John is a powerful politician.

Victim, associated with a five star hotel chain, was in Goa on a business and had known the accused for a year who was also acquainted with her friend, which is why the two women accepted lift from him on Wednesday night.

John Fernandes, better known as a manufacturer of speedboats, contested the last assembly elections against NCP candidate and current Tourism Minister Mickey Pachecho. He lost by a few hundred votes. Many of his supporters feel the current charges against him are politically motivated.

Two days ago, the Russian tourist operator had alleged that she was raped by the Goa politician.

She alleged that was raped on Wednesday night by John Fernandes, who had contested elections on a Save Goa Front ticket. The police had then filed a case of attempted rape.