Goa double murder probe turns up disturbing digital trail on accused’s phone

Goa double murder probe turns up disturbing digital trail on accused’s phone

• Police found 100+ women's photos on Aleksei Leonov's phone in Goa case.
• Investigators review digital evidence, financial records, and witness statements.
• Police urge public not to speculate as probe into the double murder continues

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As police continue to investigate the killing of two women in Goa, one detail has stood out for its disturbing nature. According to officials, the phone of the accused, Russian national Aleksei Leonov, contained photographs of more than 100 women.

Investigators say the material is now part of a larger attempt to understand Leonov’s behaviour and state of mind in the period leading up to the killings. Officers stress that the images by themselves do not prove anything. They are being examined alongside other evidence to see whether they help explain motive, relationships, or patterns of conduct.

The case came to light earlier this month after two women were found dead at a rented accommodation in Goa. Leonov, who was living with one of the victims, was arrested soon after. The incident shocked many in the state, where violent crimes of this nature are relatively rare and tend to attract immediate attention.

Police have said that early questioning suggested disputes over borrowed money and an argument involving what has been described as a “rubber crown” may have triggered the violence. These details have come from preliminary inquiries, and officers have repeatedly said the investigation is still evolving.

The contents of Leonov’s phone are only one part of the picture. Investigators are also going through call logs, messages, financial records, and witness statements to reconstruct a timeline of events. Forensic teams are analysing devices and other physical evidence recovered from the scene.

There has also been speculation around Leonov’s mental health and possible drug use. Sources quoted in media reports have suggested that he may have been mentally unwell and frequently under the influence of drugs. Police, however, have not released any medical findings and say such conclusions can only be drawn after formal psychological and forensic assessments.

Cases involving foreign nationals often add layers of complexity for local police. Officials in Goa are following standard procedures, including informing and coordinating with the Russian embassy, and working with central agencies where required. Authorities have said this coordination is routine and does not change the course of the criminal investigation.

Legal experts point out that digital material found on phones and computers is now common in serious crime probes, but it has to be treated carefully. Photographs or online activity need context, and investigators must establish relevance before drawing links to motive or intent.

For residents of Goa, the case has been unsettling. Police have said there is no indication that the killings are part of a broader pattern or threat, and have urged people not to jump to conclusions while the probe is underway.

Leonov remains in custody as investigators await forensic reports and complete questioning. Police say a clearer picture of what led to the killings should emerge once all evidence is examined and a charge sheet is filed.