Chinese Consul-General to Perth Zhong Ziqi said the fire bombings of three Chinese restaurants early Sunday "do not match at all the atmosphere of a harmonious relationship among communities in West Australia."  

In an interview with Xinhua, Zhong said "China opposes racism and violence of any kind."

Well-informed sources told Xinhua that West Australia's police have identified the suspect in set ablaze the three Chinese restaurants as one with mental disorder.

About 55,000 Australian dollars (US$41,000) of damage was caused to the three restaurants at south suburban Yangebup, Willeton and Spearwood, with swastikas left at the scenes.

The three attacks came within 90 minutes, with a window or door smashed and inflammable liquid thrown indoor for each case. "(The attacks) appear to be linked," a police spokesman said.

No one was injured in the attacks.

Zhong said the Chinese Consulate-General expressed its regret over the incident and sympathy to those who suffered losses in the incident.

He also expressed his belief that local police will handle the incident in a proper way.

Attorney-General of Western Australia Jim McGinty described such arson attacks as "completely un-Australian and completely unacceptable."

Western Australia's Police Minister Michelle Roberts said she is appalled by the attacks.

Zhong expressed the hope that no more such incidents will occur in future.

(Xinhua News Agency February 2, 2004)