A 41-year-old Canberra man has been formally charged following allegations of constructing and deploying multiple pipe bomb devices in the city’s northern suburbs. Damien O’Brien appeared before the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday, facing serious charges related to the unauthorized manufacture of prohibited dangerous substances and possession of illegal weaponry.
Court documents reveal that the explosive devices were allegedly assembled using components sourced from Bunnings Warehouse in Belconnen. According to Magistrate Ian Temby, the materials included 11 galvanized pipes and 22 matching end caps, with a total reported value of $127. Police investigations indicate that some items were allegedly stolen from the store while others were purchased normally.
The discovery of multiple pipe bombs near Lake Ginninderra prompted an intensive police investigation last week. Authorities confirmed that several devices had detonated prior to discovery, though fortunately no injuries were reported. The investigation culminated in a weekend raid on O’Brien’s Belconnen residence, where police reportedly discovered additional materials consistent with explosive device assembly.
O’Brien, who appeared in court using crutches, remained silent throughout proceedings and did not apply for bail. He faces three primary charges from January 18, plus an additional charge from December for failure to appear in court. The defendant was remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear in court on February 10 for further proceedings.