Compo dispute spurred attack on TIO

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8 February 2010

The man who allegedly firebombed a downtown branch of the Territory Insurance Office (TIO) in Darwin last week had previously disputed the insurer’s handling of his workers’ compensation claim.

Police say that last Wednesday the man wheeled a shopping trolley loaded with fuel and fireworks into the insurer’s CBD branch and then ignited it.

The fire injured 19 people, including six TIO staff members, with two sustaining serious injuries.

A 45-year-old man appeared in Darwin Magistrates’ Court on Friday facing a number of charges, including nine counts of attempted murder.

TIO CEO Richard Harding last week thanked emergency services, medical staff and the community for their support.

“Police believe this is an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to TIO, its staff or its customers,” he said.

Following the incident TIO ramped up security, stationing guards outside its offices.