Crime Branch today quizzed Goa Tourism Minister Fransisco Pacheco in connection with the death of a 28-year-old woman, who allegedly consumed poison.

Pacheco, who belongs to the NCP, a key ally in the Congress-led government, appeared before the Crime Branch at Dona Paula here at 10.30 am. His statement over the death of Nadia Torrado, a close friend of the minister, was being recorded till late afternoon.

Nadia died on last Sunday after being treated for almost a fortnight in different hospitals in Mumbai and Chennai.

Initially, Margao police had filed a case of abetment of suicide against unknown persons. The case was later handed over to Crime Branch.

Pacheco was summoned by the police earlier this week after women groups alleged his involvement in Nadia's death.

The NCP leader has strongly refuted the charge and accused the police of indulging in witch-hunting.

Along with the minister, Nadia's mother Sonia and her two brothers were also questioned by the Crime Branch.

The minister's lawyer, Vikram Varma, alleged that the police were unnecessarily harassing Pacheco and Nadia's family members.