A recent report of the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) on questionable Russian investments in real estate projects in the Indian state of Goa has prompted an inquiry by the state government into the larger ramifications of these deals.
'We know there have been huge investments in Goa over the last couple of years. Many entities and individuals are picking up agricultural land and developing it for the hospitality business. We are trying to find out the real source behind these investments, a top home ministry official told IANS in New Delhi.
According to intelligence reports, the bigger motive behind Russian groups pumping money into purchase of tracts of land was to get into lucrative rackets later that could include drug trafficking, gunrunning and
prostitution.
So far, one instance of 19,000 square metres of agricultural land brought by two Russians in Morjim, north Goa, has come to light.
'Tourists from Russia, especially those staying in Goa on long visas, are coming under increasing scrutiny after reports that East European drug cartels are attempting to turn Goa into a base for their activities,' said the home ministry official.
Over the last three months, the state government has deported 26 "Israeli" and Russian jews linked to the drug trade and the Russian land mafia.
According to deputy inspector general of police Ujjwal Mishra, some Russians were running discotheques and beach shacks under falsely registered companies.
Coincidentally, Transaero Airlines based in Russia began operating its scheduled flights from Moscow to Goa just this week. The airline will operate on a regular schedule round the year from both Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Reports also indicate that quite a few politicians in Goa have made fortunes by doubling up as realtors and with direct linkages in the property market.
Source: India News
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