Salimoni Lagicere and Edward Nand have been handed life sentences by the High Court in Suva following their conviction for the murder of Narend Chand, a Fiji-born Canadian. The court mandated that Lagicere serve a minimum of 16 years, while Nand must serve at least 18 years before they can be considered for parole.
During the sentencing on October 20, Judge Sianiu Fa’alogo Bull noted the planned and brutal nature of the attack, which occurred on February 19, 2023. The evidence indicated that the two men lured Chand under the pretense of introducing him to a woman he believed he was connecting with online—a profile that was in fact orchestrated by Nand. Upon Chand’s arrival in Fiji, he was met with violence, strangled with an electric cord purchased by Nand, and ultimately, his body was discarded in the Waimaro River.
Justice Bull emphasized the severity of the crime, stating that the murder was intentional and premeditated. The court also took into account the lack of previous violent convictions for both offenders, though there were allegations against Nand that had not been proven.
The high-profile case not only sheds light on the dangers of online interactions but also highlights the urgent need for public awareness regarding the risks involved in digital relationships. As both men face their sentences, there remains a measure of hope that justice for Narend Chand brings awareness to the broader issues of safety in online communications.
Furthermore, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when engaging with individuals through social media platforms. It underscores the potential repercussions of deception in the digital age and the critical necessity for individuals to maintain caution in their online interactions.
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