Radical Preacher Anjem Choudary Convicted of Terrorism Charges in London
- Anjem Choudary, a radical preacher, has been found guilty of leading a terrorist group by a jury in London.
- This conviction comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat extremism in the UK.
- Choudary's actions have drawn significant attention due to their implications for national security.
LONDON (AP) — Anjem Choudary, a notorious British preacher, was found guilty by a London jury on Tuesday of directing a terrorist organization. The 57-year-old was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court for his involvement with al-Muhajiroun (ALM), a radical Muslim group banned by the British government in 2010 for its links to terrorism. Prosecutors highlighted Choudary's significant role in promoting the group, which has been linked to various terrorist activities globally. Metropolitan Police Commander Dominic Murphy emphasized the far-reaching impact of ALM, stating that Choudary's radicalization efforts have led individuals to commit terrorist acts or travel for such purposes. Prosecutor Tom Little characterized Choudary as possessing a "warped and twisted mindset," noting that he took over leadership of ALM after its founder, Omar Bakri Muhammad, was imprisoned in Lebanon. Choudary denied promoting ALM, claiming the organization no longer exists, despite evidence of its continued operations under different names. The case also involved Khaled Hussein, a 29-year-old follower from Canada, who was convicted of membership in the proscribed organization. Both men were arrested last year upon Hussein's arrival at Heathrow Airport. New York Police Deputy Commissioner Rebecca Weiner described the case as historic, highlighting the rarity of convicting a leader of such a group. Sentencing for Choudary and Hussein is set for July 30, marking a significant moment in the fight against radical extremism.