Two men, Edward Nand and Watisoni Lagicere, have been found guilty of murdering Fiji-born Canadian national Narend Chand in February 2023, as determined by the Suva High Court on the morning of October 20, 2024. The court revealed that Chand, who was visiting Fiji from Canada, was unknowingly targeted by Nand, who had been impersonating a woman in order to scam him. The evidence against Nand was bolstered by the testimony of Leba Ratabacaca, Nand’s partner, who indicated that she was manipulated and threatened by Nand during the incident.
The court heard that on February 19, Nand and Lagicere picked up Chand, who believed he was meeting a woman from social media. Instead, after a stop for drugs and alcohol, the duo brutally attacked him, ultimately leading to his death. Nand reportedly communicated with Chand using a feminine voice, deceptive tactics that ultimately culminated in a plan to rob him under the guise of a romantic encounter.
The case highlighted disturbing elements of online deception, reflecting serious implications for digital relationships. Ratabacaca asserted in court that she had no involvement in the murder plot and was not aware of Nand’s plans, underlining her own victimization in the situation. The court found that Nand’s actions were premeditated, with the intention not just to rob but to kill.
As both Nand and Lagicere await sentencing, which is scheduled for next Friday, there is hope that the resolution of this case will not only deliver justice for Narend Chand’s family but also serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of online interactions. The public is reminded of the importance of vigilance in personal safety, especially when engaging in relationships that may start in the digital realm.
In summary, while the verdict brings a sense of justice, it also emphasizes the need for continued awareness and precaution as online scams and related violence remain pressing issues in society today.
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