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February 08, 2009
Article from: Australian Associated Press

ARSONISTS charged over Victoria's bushfires could face murder charges, police say.

Thirty-five people are already confirmed to have died in the fires which struck communities across Victoria.

Police have warned to expect more fatalities.

Victoria Police Deputy Chief Commissioner Kieran Walshe has said some of the fires are believed to have been deliberately lit, but would not say which ones.

A police spokeswoman said anyone found to have lit the fires would likely be charged with murder or manslaughter.

"They can be charged with murder, it depends on the evidence that comes to hand," the spokeswoman said.

"They could be charged with manslaughter or they could be charged with murder."

The spokeswoman said efforts were currently being focused on disaster victim identification and recovery of bodies.

She said the investigation into the fires would begin at a later time.