Men Deny Charges in Alleged Terror Plot Against UK Jewish Community

Two individuals have denied allegations of conspiring to carry out a gun attack on the Jewish community in the UK, reportedly inspired by the Islamic State group. Walid Saadaoui, 37, and Amar Hussein, 51, entered pleas of not guilty on Friday to charges of preparing acts of terrorism, said to have occurred between 13 December and 9 May 2023. The indictment against them asserts that they “arranged for the purchase and delivery of firearms, conducted reconnaissance and made plans of attack”. It is further alleged that the primary targets of the proposed assault included members of the Jewish community in the north-west of England, as well as members of law enforcement and the military. During the hearing at the Old Bailey, Bilel Saadaoui, 35, brother of Walid Saadaoui, also pleaded not guilty to a charge of failing to disclose information about acts of terrorism. A trial for the case has been scheduled to commence at Preston Crown Court on 7 October next year. Walid Saadaoui, of Crankwood Road, Abram; Bilel Saadaoui, of Fairclough Street, Hindley; and Mr Hussein, who is of no fixed abode, each confirmed their identities during the court proceedings. Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb set an additional preparatory hearing to take place at the Old Bailey on 14 March.