- Joined
- Apr 21, 2013
- Messages
- 165
- Points
- 0
No bail for Nauru rioters
AAP July 24, 2013, 10:25 pm
Bail has been refused for more than 150 asylum seekers accused of taking part in a riot that left Australia's asylum seeker centre on Nauru in ruins.
The detention centre was all but burned to the ground during the fracas on Friday, when a large group of asylum seekers torched a health centre, accommodation blocks, offices and cars.
Only the kitchen and recreation facility remained following the blaze, with the damage estimated at $60 million.
The Nauru District Court on Wednesday begun proceedings against the 152 people accused of involvement in the riot.
Magistrate Peter Law told the accused their actions were designed to "cause people fear" and disturb the peace.
They so far face charges of riot and unlawful assembly, but additional charges - including arson on public buildings - are expected.
Bail has formally been denied until a hearing on Thursday.
The accused asylum seekers are being represented by court appointed lawyers and are being assisted by interpreters.
Their identities will remain suppressed by court order.
