A former Fiji resident has died in police custody in Australia following an alleged violent assault on his Fiji-born wife, prompting a critical incident investigation by New South Wales Police.
The man, identified as 60-year-old Simon Chand, is alleged to have attacked his 58-year-old wife, Renuka Chand, at their home on Bligh Avenue in Lurnea, southwest Sydney, around 4.05pm on Friday.
NSW Police allege that Simon assaulted Renuka with a weapon before fleeing the scene.
Neighbours told Australian media that Renuka ran to a nearby home for help, visibly injured and distressed.
Emergency services transported her to Liverpool Hospital in serious condition, where she remains under medical care but is reportedly recovering.
Police and paramedics later found Simon at a relative’s home in Sadleir, after his brother-in-law raised the alarm. He was reportedly experiencing a suspected drug overdose at the time of his arrest.
NSW Police Acting Assistant Commissioner Trent King said Simon was initially handcuffed but the restraints were removed at the request of ambulance officers as his condition worsened.
He was transported to Westmead Hospital but was declared dead shortly after arrival.
A critical incident has been declared, with Auburn Police Area Command leading the investigation under the supervision of the Professional Standards Command and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
The couple are originally from Fiji and are believed to have migrated to Australia several years ago.
