http://www.northeastctu.police.uk/news/pair-found-guilty-preparing-terrorist-act

Pair Found Guilty of Preparing For a Terrorist Act

Monday, January 8 2018

 

Two people have today (Monday January 8, 2018) been found guilty of preparing for a terrorist attack.

The jury at the Central Criminal Court found 36 year old Munir Hassan Mohammed from Derby and 32 year old Rowaida El Hassan from London guilty of preparing for an act of terrorism under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

 

The investigation was led by Counter Terrorism Policing North East and the East Midlands Special Operations Unit – Special Branch, supported by Derbyshire, and Metropolitan Police Forces.

 

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Greenwood from Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: “It was only a matter of weeks after meeting each other that Mohammed and El Hassan had formed such a strong trust that Mohammed shared extremist material with her.

 

“This then rapidly escalated and El Hassan, a qualified pharmacist, readily passed on her knowledge to Mohammed giving him the technical assistance he need in preparing for a terrorist attack.

 

“Although we do not know what Mohammed and El Hassan’s exact intentions were, a number of concerning items had already been purchased and the pair had done extensive research regarding making TATP (acetone peroxide) and ricin.

 

“The evidence clearly shows that the pair planned to cause harm and today’s verdict, and subsequent sentences, means they will now have to face up to their actions in prison.”

 

Detective Superintendent Mark Pollock, Head of EMSOU-SB, said: “The response to this incident demonstrates our commitment to finding and bringing to justice those who are intent on causing harm to our communities in the name of whatever cause.

 

“While this conspiracy was centred in Derby and London, resources from across the national Counter Terrorism network were brought to bear on them, culminating in the successful result today.

 

“Nevertheless, while these individuals are today starting long prison sentences, it is essential that the public continues to provide information around others who may be planning or supporting attacks like those we saw earlier this year in Manchester and London.”

 

Chief Superintendent Jim Allen, who is in charge of policing in Derby, said: “The residents of Derby were shocked by these arrests late last year. Through our relationship with our partner agencies and through our Safer Neighbourhood teams, we were able to reassure the community and they really pulled together to support each other.

 

“This case is a stark reminder to Derby residents that the threat of terrorism is real and present and it highlights the need to be vigilant. Your local policing teams are at work every day trying to address this threat and it’s testament to the community in Derby that Mohammed was detected and brought to justice before he could act.

 

“Derby has always been a vibrant and multi-cultural city; a safe place to live, work and visit. My message is this -  come to Derby, enjoy shopping here, enjoy our nightlife and everything the city has to offer.

 

“I would ask anyone to report anything suspicious to us; be that suspicious behaviour among friends, colleagues, neighbours or family.  Speak to us and share any concerns you have.”

 

If you have concerns about someone’s behaviour, suspicious activity or that a person is vulnerable to radicalisation then please ACT on your instincts and help defeat terrorism.

 

For more information about reporting and seeking help visit www.gov.uk/ACT