Anti-terror Police Raid Anjem Choudary's Home

In a dramatic early morning operation, anti-terror police forcibly entered the home of Anjem Choudary, a notorious hate preacher, in Ilford, London. Body-worn camera footage captured the moment officers smashed through the front door, prompting a woman inside to scream in confusion. The police, equipped with a saw and battering ram, executed the arrest just before 5:30 AM on July 17, 2023, after years of surveillance and investigations into Choudary's activities. Choudary, 57, was apprehended under the Terrorism Act 2000, with officers suspecting his involvement in terrorist activities. Despite the chaos, he appeared calm, sitting with his hands on his lap as he was informed of his arrest. This operation followed concerns that Choudary might re-engage with terrorist networks after the expiration of his previous conviction's license conditions in 2016. Following a six-week trial at Woolwich Crown Court, Choudary was convicted of directing a terrorist organization, membership in a proscribed group, and encouraging support for terrorism. Prosecutors described him as a "shameless, prolific radicaliser," highlighting the significance of holding a leader accountable in terrorism cases, which is often rare. Khaled Hussein, a 29-year-old associate of Choudary, was also found guilty of supporting the Al-Muhajiroun (ALM) organization. The case has been deemed historic by law enforcement officials, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against radicalization and terrorism in the UK.