Indian-origin driver’s killer was former mental patient

A 48-year-old man accused of murdering Indian-origin bus driver Manmeet Alisher in Brisbane by dousing him in a flammable liquid has been confirmed as a former mental health patient and 

authorities have ordered a time-bound probe into the treatment given to him.

According to state Health Minister Cameron Dick, Anthony Mark Edward O’Donohue had undergone treatment at Queensland Health’s mental health services.

The minister also announced launching an independent external inquiry into the treatment given to O’Donohue. Dick said an independent investigation regarding his treatment would be conducted by forensic psychiatrist Paul Mullen and it would be completed within eight weeks.

Meanwhile, Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the attack was not racially motivated and extended support to the family of 29-year-old Alisher, who was also popular as a Punjabi singer.

Quirk, who met the family and friends of Alishar, said there was no proof that the attack was racially motivated and that residents of all races came together to show their support for the victim and Brisbane bus drivers.

However, Alisher’s brother Amit Alisher, who had arrived from India yesterday, was quoted by ABC news as saying, “We suspect that it may be (racially motivated).

“We would like to see due process, we have faith in the Australian system,” he said.

Quirk extended his support and deepest condolences to Alisher’s family, on behalf of the Brisbane community.

The city council also announced establishing a fund to support Alisher’s family and Alisher will also be honoured with a permanent memorial after consultation with the local community.

Dick said, “To the extent possible, any findings and recommendations of this investigation will be released publicly. Queensland Health will also assist with any investigation or inquiry conducted by the Queensland Police Service and State Coroner in relation to this incident.”