Russians Face Flak in Goa

Russians are facing a backlash in Goa with allegations of organised crime, illegal land deals and even claims that they are “corrupting the minds” of locals in India’s popular resort state.

There have been a number of outspoken attacks against them since the start of the year, when a Russian businessman was blamed for killing a taxi driver in Morjim village, in north Goa, sparking public protests.

Others have voiced concerns about a rise in crime, against a backdrop of long-standing fears that the Russian mafia is using the former Portuguese colony as a base for money-laundering, vice rings and arms and drug-running.

On the main approach road to Morjim — dubbed “Little Russia” by locals because of the high number of Russians now living there — it’s not hard to see the extent to which the new arrivals have left their mark.

A giant advertising hoarding for holiday properties is written entirely in the Cyrillic alphabet.

A short scooter ride away down narrow lanes, Russian is a familiar sound on the sandy beaches and in the popular bars and restaurants, where menus are also in the language.

“For us, English is a major problem, as most Russians hardly speak it. It’s really good to see a Russian around,” said Morjim bar owner Andrei Medvedev.