The Queensland Police Service (QPS) in partnership with the Australian Federal Police, Commonwealth Attorney-General's Department and Indian Government have successfully extradited a man to face prosecution for the murder of a Queensland woman in October, 2018.
On November 3 last year the QPS announced a $1 million reward for information from the public as part of ongoing investigations into the 2018 murder of 24-year-old Toyah Cordingley in Far North Queensland.
Following this, police received information regarding the whereabouts of the individual and on November 25, 2022 he was arrested by Indian Law Enforcement in New Delhi.
On January 10, 2023 Rajwinder Singh consented to his extradition to Australia for prosecution for the murder of Toyah Cordingley.
On January 24, 2023 the Indian court recommended Mr Singh be surrendered to Australia.
A team of detectives from Far North Queensland and the Homicide Investigation Unit travelled to New Delhi last week following approval by the Government of India for the extradition.
Accompanied by the team, the 38-year-old man arrived in Melbourne today, March 1 and is expected to face an extradition hearing in Melbourne Magistrates' Court later today where QPS will apply for his domestic extradition from Victoria to Queensland.
Detective Inspector Sonia Smith said the arrest and subsequent international extradition highlights the excellent relationship between the Queensland Police Service, Australian Federal Police, the Commonwealth Attorney-General's Department and Indian authorities regarding this matter.
"Whilst we acknowledge continued media and public interest in the case, our primary focus has always been ensuring justice for Toyah, her family and friends without compromising the investigation," Detective Inspector Sonia Smith said.
"We have been determined to find answers for Toyah's family and the work of all involved has been meticulous since that terrible day in October, 2018.
"It has been a long journey, including the announcement of the reward for information, $1 million-the largest in the Queensland's history, back in November last year.
"Our thoughts, and I know those of the tight-knit community of Cairns have always been and will continue to be with Toyah's family.
"Together with other Australian agencies we have continued to work closely and respectfully with Indian authorities to pursue justice for Toyah and her family.
"The relationship the QPS has with Australian and other law enforcement agencies again demonstrates the importance of partnerships internationally."
Detective Inspector Sonia Smith said the reward has not been issued to date, however will be fully considered following due diligence at the appropriate time.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
