Terrorists sentenced to 63 years over plot targeting Jewish communities in North West
Extremists convicted after planning attack inspired by Islamic State
Last updated 4 hours ago
Two men have been sentenced to a minimum total of 63 years for plotting a terrorist attack on Jewish communities in the north-west of England, inspired by Islamic State ideologies, aimed at mass casualties.
Walid Saadaoui, 38, and Amar Hussein, 52, were sentenced at Preston Crown Court for preparing to launch a large-scale attack.
Saadaoui was jailed for a minimum of 37 years, Hussein for a minimum of 26 years.
Walid Saadaoui's younger brother, Bilel Saadaoui, 36, was sentenced to six years, for failing to disclose their plans to authorities.
The plot included smuggling firearms into the UK with the intent to attack a Jewish march in Manchester city centre and further target areas predominantly occupied by the Jewish community.
Criminal plans for mass harm
Walid Saadaoui was identified as the primary instigator, having planned to bring military-grade firearms into the UK, and conducting reconnaissance of potential targets in Greater Manchester. His accomplice, Hussein, joined him in multiple reconnaissance trips to Dover as preparations advanced between December 2023 and May 2024.
Counter Terrorism officers intervened, arresting Walid Saadaoui on 8 May 2024 as he attempted to obtain assault rifles, a semi-automatic pistol, and ammunition.
Despite Bilel Saadaoui’s shared extremist beliefs, he opted not to partake in the planned attack but concealed critical information, holding £70,000 belonging to Walid and a copy of his will.
Building the case
The Counter Terrorism Division and CPS developed a compelling case using digital evidence and witness testimony from an undercover officer who infiltrated the group. Evidence presented in court demonstrated the defendants' planning, coordination, and communication, proving the intent to carry out a terrorist attack.
Frank Ferguson, Head of the Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, highlighted the role of the investigation in preventing mass harm.
“This was a deeply disturbing plot inspired by extremist ideology...We worked closely with counter-terrorism officers to ensure the strongest possible case was built from the outset and presented in court to the jury, resulting in these convictions,” Ferguson said.
Highlighting the gravity of terrorism, Ferguson emphasized, "We will always use the law to protect communities from harm and relentlessly hold offenders to account, making sure they face the toughest legal consequences for their actions.”
Through collaboration and dedication, authorities successfully thwarted plans that could have led to one of the deadliest terror attacks on Jewish communities in the UK.