Man sentenced to life in India for raping and killing Irish tourist in Goa

In India, a court has sentenced 31-year-old Vikat Bhagat to life imprisonment for the rape and murder of 28-year-old Danielle McLaughlin, an Irish tourist. The crime took place nearly eight years ago in Goa, a popular tourist destination, reports NewsBox.

Danielle McLaughlin's body was discovered in March 2017 on a beach in Goa. The forensic examination determined that the cause of death was brain injuries and asphyxiation. On February 14, Vikat Bhagat was found guilty of the crime, according to The Associated Press.

The McLaughlin family expressed gratitude to the prosecutor and investigator for ensuring justice in this case.

In accordance with Indian law, the names of rape victims are usually kept confidential. However, in this case, the victim's family reached out to the media to draw attention to the case.

This crime highlights the ongoing issue of violence against women in India, despite strengthening laws against sexual violence after the tragic death of a young woman who was gang-raped on a bus in New Delhi in 2012.

Goa attracts millions of tourists annually due to its numerous beach resorts and is a popular trekking destination in India.