Panaji: The Crime Branch of Goa Police on Wednesday took over the investigation into the case related to alleged derogatory remarks against St Francis Xavier and arrested Madhav Khattar, brother of main accused Gautam Khattar, officials said on Wednesday.
Madhav Khattar was apprehended in Haridwar after police teams kept surveillance on the residence of Gautam Khattar and tracked his movements, they said. He has been placed under arrest and is being brought to Goa for further investigation.
According to the police, Madhav had accompanied Gautam Khattar to the event in Vasco where the alleged objectionable remarks were made. During the probe, it has come on record that the video of the speech was recorded by Madhav and later circulated on social media platforms.
Investigators said the organisers of the event were questioned by the Crime Branch, during which it emerged that they were in touch with Madhav Khattar for coordination and logistical arrangements related to Gautam Khattar’s visit. Madhav had reportedly agreed to Gautam’s participation on conditions including flight tickets, accommodation and a payment of Rs 51,000, police said.
The probe has further revealed that the speech delivered at the event was allegedly prepared by Madhav Khattar and later delivered by Gautam Khattar, officials said, adding that he has been made a co-accused in the case.
Meanwhile, the Crime Branch has issued a Look Out Circular against the main accused Gautam Khattar and alerted the Bureau of Immigration to prevent him from leaving the country.
Police teams are camping in different cities across the country to trace Gautam Khattar, officials said, adding that further investigation in the case is underway.
