Birmingham man jailed for six years after admitting terrorism charges
Police searches found phones belonging to Musa Abdrabba containing terrorism material, including bomb making instructions
Last updated 8th May 2026
A man from Birmingham has been sentenced to six years in prison after admitting membership of a banned terrorist organisation, following an investigation into his online activities linked to so-called Islamic State (ISIS).
23-year-old Musa Abdrabba, of Newport Road in Balsall Heath, pleaded guilty in September to two counts of belonging to a proscribed organisation.
He was arrested in October 2023 by Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands officers in the Sparkhill area.
During the investigation, officers seized three mobile phones belonging to Abdrabba. Analysis of the devices revealed extremist material, including violent propaganda videos and instructions related to making explosives.
Between January and October 2023, Abdrabba was found to have used an online alias to support ISIS media operations. His activity included translating posts, producing and sharing propaganda content, and engaging with supporters.
He also provided advice on how to avoid detection by authorities while operating online.
Authorities said his role focused on helping spread extremist messaging through digital platforms.
Head of Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands, Detective Chief Superintendent Alison Hurst said: “After Abdrabba pledged his allegiance to ISIS in August 2023, he was fully committed to the role of media facilitator to ensure their propaganda was widely shared and updated.
“He took it upon himself to provide a service to a proscribed organisation and posted extremist material glorifying ISIS, he had no regard for the corrosive impact or the radicalising effect that the material could have on others in our communities.”