Court Rules Accused Man Unfit for Trial

A 30-year-old man accused of attempting to abduct one young child and abducting another in Dundee has been ruled unfit to stand trial because of mental-health concerns.
Emmanuel Chukwunedu had been remanded in custody on two separate allegations: the attempted abduction of a four-year-old girl on Commercial Street on 24 August 2024, and the alleged abduction of a two-year-old boy at Fairmuir Park on 26 October 2024.

Psychiatric assessments submitted to Dundee Sheriff Court concluded that Chukwunedu is not capable of understanding or taking part in standard court proceedings. Following these findings, Sheriff Tim Niven-Smith ordered that he be detained at Murray Royal Hospital in Perth under a treatment order.

The court will instead hold an “examination of facts” later this year at Forfar Sheriff Court, a special hearing used in Scotland when an accused person cannot participate in a normal trial. The process will determine only whether the alleged acts occurred, not criminal guilt or innocence.

Focus on Mental-Health Treatment and Public Safety

Solicitor advocate Billy Watt, representing Chukwunedu, told the court that there are “significant difficulties” with his client’s mental health and that specialist care is already under way. Two separate psychiatric reports supported the same conclusion.

Under Scottish law, when a person is declared unfit for trial, the justice system focuses on treatment, ongoing assessment, and risk management rather than punishment. The aim is to balance public safety with the individual’s right to medical care.

Chukwunedu will remain at Murray Royal Hospital while doctors continue treatment and monitoring. Any future decisions about his detention will depend on updated clinical reports and legal review.

Looking Ahead: Examination of Facts Scheduled for December

Prosecutor Douglas Thomson confirmed that an examination of facts has been scheduled for December. During that hearing, the sheriff will review evidence from witnesses and police officers to decide whether the alleged offences—attempted abduction and abduction, or the historical alternative charge of plagium—took place.

The case has drawn community concern but also renewed public discussion about how Scotland’s courts handle offenders and accused persons experiencing acute mental illness. Authorities have emphasised that the proceedings are not about blame but about establishing facts, ensuring safety, and securing appropriate treatment.

Until the hearing concludes, no findings of guilt or criminal liability can be made. The outcome will guide the court on whether further restrictions or medical supervision are required.