Australian police close in on ‘Scorpio’, mystery author of threatening letters to high-profile people | Australia news

Police are appealing for help to track down the mysterious author of more than 100 letters, some threatening, sent to prominent figures in the community.

Australian federal police and New South Wales police have released extracts from anonymous letters sent by someone using the names “Scorpio” and “Bullit”.

Police say the letters form part of a collection of more than 100 letters sent from 2015 to 2026 to state and federal parliamentarians, religious organizations and community leaders.

The letters, some of which police said were threatening or abusive, were seized after forensic examination.

While NSW police are investigating under the Yewrangara Strike Force, the AFP is investigating letters sent to federal MPs and community groups.

AFP Chief Nathan Robertson said on Tuesday their priority was to prevent the “escalation” of any behavior that could endanger society.

“We have very serious concerns about the content of these letters and people in public life deserve to be able to pursue their jobs or careers without being subjected to harassment or threats,” he said.

Police have released extracts from the letters in the hope that the public can help identify the writer through his distinctive handwriting style.

Among the clippings, above the signature is a menacing smiley face that resembles the marks left by bullet casings for the eyes: “Scorpion.”

The author also referred to himself as “Bullit” and often capitalized “F”, “L”, “T”, “N” and “H”.

While the identity of the writer remains a mystery, police said efforts were being made to capture the attacker, who is believed to be a Caucasian-looking man in his 60s.

“Our investigations relate to allegations of criminal conduct but we also have concerns about whether the person responsible has access to appropriate health and support services,” Robertson said.