Panaji: The probe into the rape of a Russian
minor last year has hit a roadblock amid reports that the
prime accused died at his native village in Uttar Pradesh, Goa
Police said on Sunday.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Sammy Tavares, however,
clarified there was no formal information about death of the
20-year-old Aman Bharadwaj.
Aman was being tried in Panaji Bench of the Bombay High
Court for allegedly raping the nine-year-old Russian girl on
January 26, 2010 at Arambol beach here.
According to media reports quoting Uttar Pradesh police,
Aman died soon after Diwali at his village Kasaila under Nagar
police station.
While Uttar Pradesh police claimed that Aman killed
himself, his family members stated that he died of jaundice.
Tavares said Goa police were yet to receive any formal
communication from their Uttar Pradesh counterparts though
reports about his death were received by the local police
station in Goa, which had investigated the case.
Aman, along with his friend Anil Raghuwanshi, had been
acquitted by Goa Children`s Court after a prolonged trial in
this case.
The state government, however, appealed against the
acquittal in Panaji bench of the Bombay High Court.
The high court had issued a non-bailable arrest warrant
against Aman who was supposed to be presented before the court
tomorrow.
Superintendent of Police (North) Arvind Gawas said the
police will verify whether Aman really died.
"If he is dead than we will submit death certificate
before the court," he said, adding, "It has to be decided by
the court whether to proceed with the case or dismiss it."
PTI
