As couples around the world celebrate Valentine’s Day, Ranjni Devi faces the holiday with profound sorrow and lingering questions. Ten years have passed since the tragic death of her husband, Salesh Chand, whose charred body was discovered in his burned vehicle in Lautoka in June 2016. Mr. Chand, a former West regional manager for Vinod Patel, was classified as a murder victim by the police.
Ms. Devi, 46, residing in Muanikoso Housing, Nasinu, expressed her anguish over the lack of progress in the investigation, stating she has repeatedly sought updates but has been met with the same response: the inquiries are still ongoing. “For 10 years, I have been asking for progress, and each time I’m told the investigations are still continuing,” she lamented.
Adding to her distress, Ms. Devi claims that her husband’s gold chain and pendant, which were allegedly taken as evidence at the crime scene, have never been returned. “I have proof that the officer removed the chain from his neck and kept it as evidence, but now I am being told they don’t have any jewellery,” she stated.
In her quest for answers, Ms. Devi has reached out to various authorities, including the Police Commissioner, yet she feels unheard. “It has been 10 years, and they are still saying they are looking for people to interview. I have lost trust. In a small country like ours, how can it take this long?” she voiced her frustrations.
The police have indicated they will look into the matter and respond to Ms. Devi’s questions at a later date. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges families face in securing justice and closure in unresolved cases. Despite her pain, Ms. Devi’s resolve to seek answers remains a testament to her strength and love for her husband.