Two charged over Ultimo explosion

Two charged over Ultimo explosion

The owner of a Nando’s chicken restaurant and his brother-in-law have been arrested over an explosion that destroyed the shop in Ultimo earlier this year.

A 37-year-old man was charged by City Central police for maliciously damaging the Mountain Street property by fire or explosion, while the 43-year-old owner was charged with being an accessory before the fact.

Following a six month investigation, police allege the February 4 fire, which caused an estimated $3.5 million damage, was deliberately lit.

“Police will allege the explosion resulted from the ignition of fumes which had built up in the restaurant after an accelerant was poured on the floor,” Detective Sergeant Mark Callanan from City Central Police said.

“Had it not been for the time of day and heavy rain at the time, the explosion could have caused serious injury or death to nearby residents.”

The explosion was said to have been felt up to five kilometres away, and completely destroyed the premises as well as damaging nearby businesses.

Hundreds of people living in apartments above the restaurant were forced to evacuate and had to be housed elsewhere for several days.

Both men are due to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on August 5.

 

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