The joint media release with Australian Federal Police and Queensland Police Service
The AFP in partnership with Queensland Police Service (QPS) has assisted Indian Law Enforcement in the arrest of a man wanted for the murder of a Queensland woman on 22 October, 2018.
The AFP Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (FAST) and AFP New Delhi have been actively assisting QPS in the search and arrest of the man suspected of her murder.
Police received information on the whereabouts of the individual and today (25 November, 2022) he was arrested by Indian Law Enforcement in New Delhi. It is anticipated that he will face court in India and be subject to extradition proceedings to Australia.
The man was believed to be avoiding apprehension in the Punjab region in India since travelling to the country on 23 October, 2018.
In March 2021, an extradition request was approved by the former Australian Attorney-General and presented to the Government of India who accepted the request.
On 3 November, 2022, a $1 million reward was announced by QPS and Police Minister Mark Ryan for information leading to the arrest of this man.
Between 27 October and 8 November, 2022 QPS officers travelled to India and in conjunction with AFP New Delhi had direct engagement with Indian Law enforcement to share information with the intent to arrest the man.
AFP Commander Transnational Operations Richard Chin said AFP investigators worked tirelessly with their state and international counterparts to ensure the man was apprehended to face extradition back to Australia.
"We hope that today's arrest brings some closure to the victim's family following an agonising four years of uncertainty," he said.
"The AFP acknowledges the close relationship with Indian Law Enforcement and QPS which have allowed us to work effectively and achieve this significant outcome."
Queensland Police Service Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the arrest highlights the excellent relationship between the Australian Federal Police, the Commonwealth Attorney-General's Department and Indian authorities regarding this matter.
"Together with other Australian agencies we have continued to work closely and respectfully with Indian authorities to pursue justice for Toyah and her family," Commissioner Carroll said.
"The relationship the QPS has with Australian and other law enforcement agencies again demonstrates the importance of partnerships internationally.
"I would like to personally commend the dedicated Queensland police officers who have remained unwavering in their commitment to deliver justice for Toyah, her family, her partner, friends and the local community who have shown immense support."
Police Minister Mark Ryan said this case has involved hundreds of officers, thousands of hours, a million reasons and a billion eyes to get justice for Toyah and her family.
"Can I commend everyone for their relentless, unwavering commitment in perusing this matter, and working with agencies all over the world to get an arrest in this case.
"This is an extraordinary effort by our truly world class Queensland Police Service and its partners."
