A 31-year-old man facing charges in relation to the ICBM and Meche Nightclub explosions in 2011 will need his mental health assessed before the court can proceed.
Scott Wyatt appeared in ACT Magistrates Court this morning charged with two counts of arson and one count of drug possession. Prosecution and defence were united in the decision to refer the matter to ACT mental health services before proceeding.
Wyatt was arrested yesterday, six years after the explosions, stating God had instructed him to hand himself into police, the court heard. Wyatt allegedly told police about multiple explosive devices inside a vehicle, claiming Australian intelligence services were involved.
Patrons were forced to evacuate Meche Nightclub in 2011 after what appeared to be illegal commercial fireworks were lit inside the male toilets. Later the same evening, two people were taken to hospital for treatment after a second explosion at ICBM nightclub. Both clubs were located on Northbourne Avenue and have since closed down.
Police allege they found Wyatt in possession of a crystalline substance at the time of his arrest.
Damages to the nightclubs were in excess of $50,000 in 2011.
Mental illness and the justice system is a complex matter involving multiple departments and facilities outside of the court. As such this matter will not be heard until a comprehensive assessment has been completed.
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