A dangerous Islamist extremist who amassed a terrifying arsenal of weapons and declared his desire for all non-Muslims to be 'eradicated' has been jailed for life.
Muhammed Farooq, 29, was described by a judge as a 'committed, determined and dangerous terrorist' after he was sentenced at the Old Bailey. He will serve a minimum of 15 years behind bars.
A Chilling Plot Uncovered
Farooq had meticulously planned a murderous spree, stockpiling an array of weapons including a crossbow, knives, and a fake suicide vest. His intended targets were believed to be his colleagues at St Thomas' Hospital, located directly opposite the Houses of Parliament.
Counter-terrorism police intervened just in time, arresting him in the hospital's cafeteria in January 2023, averting a potential catastrophe.
Digital Trail of Hate
An examination of Farooq's digital devices revealed a deep-seated hatred. He had downloaded and shared extremist material, including a video of the brutal murder of Lee Rigby.
In one particularly chilling message, he wrote: "I don't see any non-Muslim as innocent. I want to eradicate them... I wish death upon all non-Muslims."
He had also researched the 2017 Westminster Bridge attack, studying the tactics of Khalid Masood.
A Life Sentence for Public Protection
Mr. Justice Jeremy Baker, passing sentence, stated that Farooq had 'demonstrated a commitment to terrorism' and posed a significant ongoing risk to the public.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met's Counter Terrorism Command, emphasised the gravity of the case: "Farooq had a clear intent to carry out a deadly attack. The swift action of our officers undoubtedly saved lives."
This case highlights the continued vigilance required to combat the persistent threat of lone-wolf terrorism in the UK.
