Australia

Police investigate arson and looting claims as wild fires rage

Article published on the 2009-02-11 Latest update 2009-02-11 11:32 TU

A volunteer helps a Koala which was badly burned
(Photo: Reuters)

Wednesday saw new claims that arsonists set fires in the blaze-stricken state of Victoria overnight, as Australian police pursue the biggest arson enquiry in the country's history. There are also reports of looting, as firefighters battle 23 wild fires threatening homes and farms in the south-east of the country.

Victoria state Premier John Brumby said Wednesday that there is "little doubt" that several fires were deliberately lit overnight. At least 181 people died in blazes in Victoria at the weekend, with some reports putting the death toll at 200.

State Police Commissioner Christine Nixon says that investigators are closing in on an arsonist blamed for lighting a fire in Gippsland region.

Police have ruled out the possibility that the arsonisists are Islamic fundamentalists, despite reports last year that one group had urged Muslims to set fires as part of a "holy war".

Meanwhile, many residents are frustrated at official procedures which prevent them returning to their homes and require proof of identity from those seeking emergency aid.

Brumby defended police roadblocks on the grounds that the sight of corpses in ruined homes could prove traumatic for survivors.

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said Wednesday that the fires have left 500 people injured, more than 1,000 homes destroyed and 450,000 hectares burnt. More than 5,000 people have been left homeless.

Celebrities, including Canadian singer Leonard Cohen and the Australian and New Zealand cricket teams, have offered condolences and donations to the relief fund set up for survivors.