North Goa has been left stunned after a Russian national was arrested for allegedly murdering two women, both Russian citizens, in separate incidents within 24 hours. The accused, identified as 37-year-old Aleksei Leonov, was taken into custody by Mandrem police on Friday, officials confirmed.
Woman Found Murdered in Morjim
Police said the first killing occurred on the night of January 14 in Morjim village. Leonov allegedly murdered his friend, Elena Vaneeva (37), inside her rented room. According to the complaint filed by Vaneeva’s landlady, the two had a dispute after 11 pm, following which Leonov is accused of slitting her throat with a knife.
Investigators revealed that Leonov left Morjim and travelled nearly eight kilometres to Arambol the next evening, January 15. There, he allegedly killed his girlfriend, Elena Kasthanova (37), at a rented house where the couple had been staying. Police said an argument escalated into violence.
Victim Restrained Before Attack
According to police, Leonov tied Kasthanova’s hands and legs with a rope-like material, attempting to restrain her inside the room. When she tried to escape, he allegedly attacked her with a sharp weapon, slitting her throat. The house owner grew suspicious and informed the police, prompting immediate action.
Both bodies were recovered on Friday during the investigation. Leonov was arrested and booked under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to murder and unlawful confinement. Police said the FIRs have been registered at Morjim and Mandrem police stations.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are probing the motive behind the killings and examining whether the crimes were premeditated. Police are also reviewing Leonov’s movements and interactions before and after the incidents. The case has sparked concern among locals and foreign residents in Goa, known for its large international tourist presence.
Superintendent of Police (Fatehpur) Anoop Kumar Singh said preliminary investigation suggested that Dildar suspected Faizan of having an affair with his sister-in-law and believed his sister was supporting her.
“The accused had earlier seen them in a compromising position and was enraged. The knife used in the crime has been recovered,” the SP said.
“The accused assaulted his friend who he was staying with and wrongfully restrained her, caused her multiple injuries and slit her neck with a sharp weapon,” a police officer said on condition of anonymity.
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