from Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (GA)
 
Panaji, Dec 12: Alleging police-criminal nexus in Goa, a Russian businessman today alleged that he was brutally assaulted by a gang arranging night parties at Palolem beach,  the southernmost tip of  Goa in Canacona taluka. Dan Sorokin, a Russian national and director  of an Indian company White Raj Resorts Pvt Ltd., alleged that he and his friends were mercilessly beaten up by a gang, which also comprised of a policeman in plain clothe on December 7.

"They used to organise night parties in my property earlier. Even this year, I heard, before I arrived, there was one night party was held. They were objecting to my presence in the property which is owned by my company," Sorokin told reporters this evening.

He said that the gang, which is currently at large, assaulted him mercilessly and even his friend and girlfriend who came for his rescue were beaten up. "They were armed with swords, knives and steel tubes. I sustained 15 injuries and was admitted to the hospital by the police who arrived at the scene after complaining," the Russian said.

Sorokin said that even a week after the assault and formal police complaint, none has registered his statement.  "The gang is still at large and no arrest is made till now," he said.

White Raj Resorts Pvt. Ltd had purchased property in Canacona taluka in 2006 and is planning to construct a starred resort at this place which is frequented by foreign visitors.

Sorokin alleged that the local police were hand in gloves with the assaulters and were not against them. "Instead, they arrested the Russian friend of mine who came for my rescue and put him behind bars for a day before the bail was obtained."

The Russian said that his company is rightful owner of the land and intends to construct the resort boosting the tourism in that area.

"The Russian consulate in Mumbai has been informed about the incident, which will follow up the matter with India's external affairs ministry," Sorokin said.

The local police, when contacted, contended that the cross complaint has been filed in the matter. "A group which alleged to have assaulted foreigners have also filed the complaint of trespass against them. It's a property dispute," Police Inspector Suraj Halarnkar said.