Australia

Arsonist named, despite fears of vigilante violence

Article published on the 2009-02-16 Latest update 2009-02-16 14:24 TU

Firefighters at work near Victoria.
(Photo : Reuters)

A Melbourne court lifted the order keeping secret the identity of a man accused of arson that caused death. Brendan Sokaluk allegedly lit a bushfire that contributed to fires that have killed at least 189 people.

The death toll was revised upwards for the first time Monday, after staying stable for a week. Rescue officials explained that all easily-identifiable bodies had been recovered, but that crews had yet to penetrate into the wreckage of many houses.

Local officials would not speculate, however, on how high they thought the death toll would go.

Sokaluk, 39, has been charged with arson causing death, intentionally lighting a bushfire, and the possession of child pornography. He faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison if found guilty.

His lawyer, Helen Spowart, argued that there was a real chance of vigilante attacks if her client’s name was released to the public, but magistrate John Klestadt was not convinced.

There was a heavy police presence in the courtroom Monday, though no protestors.

Police continue to investigate some of the other fires in Victoria State. Arson is suspected in at least one other case: a fire that razed the town of Marysville and killed 100 people.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd called for a national day of mourning. A ceremony to be held in the Rod Laver Arena, where the Australian Open is played, will be broadcast live on national television and radio.

Thousands of firefighters continue to work on putting out the remaining eight fires burning out of control around Victoria – down from 20 a few days ago – but no towns are threatened, officials said.