Assistant Minister to the Attorney-General, Senator the Hon. Amanda Stoker confirms today that she has signed an extradition request to India. The request is with respect to a man wanted by Queensland Police in relation to the murder of Toyah Cordingley at Wangetti Beach in October 2018.
Toyah Cordingley, 24, was walking her partner Marco’s dog on Wangetti Beach, north of Cairns, on October 21, 2018. She was reported missing later that evening, and her body discovered the next morning. No charges have been laid since. Image via Facebook.
Toyah’s Story
No charges have been laid over Toyah’s death despite an expansive police investigation spanning more than two years and tremendous community effort.
Toyah Cordingley, 24, was walking her partner Marco’s dog on Wangetti Beach, north of Cairns, on October 21, 2018. By 11:00pm, she had not returned home, and she was reported missing by her worried family.
With her last movements tracked to Wangetti Beach, family, friends and search crews descended on the beach.
Early the next morning, Toyah’s mother, Vanessa Gardiner, found Toyah’s dog, unharmed, on the beach.
Soon after, Toyah’s father, Troy Cordingley, discovered Toyah’s body with “visible and violent injuries” partly buried in sand dunes.
A Community Plea Not to Compromise Proceedings
With today’s news of extradition, members of the Justice for Toyah group are pleading with the community not to compromise the ongoing investigation with speculation and thoughtless comments.
It is paramount that in the event that an arrest is made, proceedings are not compromised. We request all members refrain from commenting on any of the following in order to maintain the legal process and of course, out of respect to Toyah’s family…
Justice for Toyah Group Statement
The Group asks the community not to:
- discuss details of the Person of Interest
- discuss details of any witness or anyone involved in the case
- speculate or discuss specific details of the case
- direct any abuse, accusations or threats towards the Person of Interest or any other associated party
Queensland Police Service statement
Police have faced a number of challenges due to the complex nature of the investigation, however remain committed to maintaining the integrity of the rigorous process.
Senator Stoker said she took the unusual step of confirming the warrant’s existence due to extraordinary community and media interest in the case.
Assistant Minister to the Attorney-General, Senator the Hon. Amanda Stoker
The next step in the extradition process is to formally lodge the request with India.
An interview with Toyah’s mother Vanessa Gardiner will air on the 60 Minutes program this Sunday.
Here is a sneak peek of this weekend’s program:
Anyone with information relating to Toyah’s death is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online. You may remain anonymous.
