Two men jailed for life over plot to attack Greater Manchester’s Jewish community
Two men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for plotting a terrorist attack against the Jewish community in Greater Manchester, which was prevented by an undercover operation.
Two men, Walid Saadaoui and Amar Hussein, have received life sentences for their involvement in a foiled terrorist attack aimed at Greater Manchester's Jewish community. The plot, which was disrupted by an undercover operative, was described as one of the UK's most dangerous terrorist conspiracies. Saadaoui, who took the lead in the scheme and pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, was sentenced to a minimum of 37 years, while Hussein was given a sentence of at least 26 years.
The investigation lasted several months, with the court hearing evidence of the defendants' radicalization and their intent to carry out a firearms attack. Saadaoui's brother, Bilel, also faced repercussions for his indirect involvement, receiving a six-year sentence for failing to report the plot to authorities. The case highlighted not only the specific threats faced by the Jewish community in the UK but also broader concerns about Islamist extremism in the country.
This sentencing serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing risks of domestic terrorism and the vital role of intelligence and law enforcement in preventing such attacks. The incident also raises questions about the community's safety and the measures necessary to protect at-risk groups in the wake of such plots. It underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and communities to address and counteract hate-driven violence.