Photo for representational purpose

A 69-year-old lady was allegedly raped and murdered by unknown culprits at Santa Cruz village near Panaji on Saturday night, the police said today.The lady, a divorcee, used to live alone in her residence where she had moved in 15 days ago. A police spokesperson said that she may have been raped before being smothered to death.The post-mortem report confirmed death due to asphyxia. The report also stated that there were severe injuries on her private parts.According to the police, it was the victim's neighbour who reported the crime. "The incident occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning," said a policeman.

A complaint has been lodged by the lady's nephew at the Old Goa police station, and a manhunt is on to trace the culprits.Meanwhile a medical report is still awaited.