50 Police Officers continue to search premises, take witness statements, assess evidence and consider the potential charges following the deliberate fire at TIO Banking Office yesterday morning.
A 45-year-old man (not 44 as previously reported), Darwin region resident remains in Police custody.
The dissatisfied claimant had made some threats previously which TIO had correctly brought to the attention of Police resulting in specialist advice and available options including increased security being implemented.
TIO have advised the details of the claim are protected under privacy legislation so while this forms part of the police investigation, Police will not be releasing this level of detail to the public.
The crime scene is likely to be maintained for another few days to enable specialist imagery equipment to be utilised which is likely to be presented in Court.
The Police Officer who rendered immediate assistance at the scene, has been released from hospital following treatment for smoke inhalation.
Police can confirm that the 45-year old man entered the TIO premise pushing a shopping trolley containing jerry cans of fuel and fire crackers, he lit the contents of the trolley causing an explosion and a rapid fire. This resulted in a number of injuries as reported by Royal Darwin Hospital.
The 'explosion' sounds heard by witnesses were the fire crackers.
It is then believed the alleged offender left the area in his vehicle and drove to Darwin Police Station where he parked and handed himself in.
Commander Colleen Gwynne, Officer in Charge of the operation codenamed 'Brixton' has condemned the actions of the offender, describing them as callous and cowardly,
"While there are a number of burn victims and other patients still in hospital for treatment, it is only luck that has seen no fatalities as a result of this very serious incident.
"Yesterday, I received a comprehensive briefing from some of the first responders at the scene. The way Emergency crews took control of the incident and the way the public responded in supporting these crews is at least one part of this shocking incident that we can all find some pride in.
"Fire and Rescue were automatically notified as the alarm system was activated. The sprinkler system was on when they arrived so after dealing with what was left of the flames, they were providing first aid with St Johns Ambulance.
"Police were also very quick to the scene and directed the willing public with tasks including holding victims oxygen canisters, monitoring oxygen gauges and fetching frozen peas to soothe burns.
"One of our Police Officers who happened to be in the area, reacted without hesitation to search the burning building to ensure it had been fully evacuated. His quick response is a credit to the NT Police force.
"The alert was also sent through the executive floor of the neighbouring Police Head Quarters resulting in all available Police attending, assisting with scene management including taking witness statements before people left the area.
"While we have significant information available to us at this stage, the investigation is still ongoing and charges must be very carefully considered in line with all evidence, some of which is still being compiled.
"This will not be rushed and I have no timeframe on when the public can expect this to occur. What I can confirm, is that the alleged offender will remain in our custody until such time as we put him before the court." Commander Gwynne confirmed.
Police urge anyone who was in the area and may have information to assist with Operation Brixton to contact Police on 131 444 if they haven't done so already.
Media contact:
Katie Fowden
0401 116 540
