Men's alleged terrorist plot designed to cause 'multiple fatalities' in the North West

'Distressing details' were heard in court after three men were charged after a terrorism investigation.

Walid Saadaoui, 36, of Crankwood Road, Abram, Wigan, and Amar Hussein, 50, of no fixed abode, are accused of plotting to carry out an Islamic State-inspired gun attack against the Jewish community.

The two men are alleged to have plotted a terror attack designed to cause "multiple fatalities using automatic weapons" in the North West of England, Westminster Magistrates' Court heard today (May 14) - Manchester Evening News reports.

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The men also intended to target law enforcement and military as part of the "Isil or Daesh-inspired terrorist attack", prosecutors alleged. Both are charged with the preparation of terrorist acts between December 13 2023 and May 9 2024.

Bilel Saadaoui, 35, of Fairclough Street, Hindley, also appeared before the court accused of making arrangements for Walid Saadaoui who is his brother after his death. He pleaded not guilty to a charge of failing to disclose information about an act of terrorism between the same dates.

District Judge Louisa Cieciora remanded all three men into custody to appear at the Old Bailey on May 24. Ahead of the hearing in London, GMP's Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts issued a statement in which he said the details heard in court were 'likely to have a significant impact on communities' in Greater Manchester but that 'everybody should feel safe regardless of their religion or race'.

In a further statement issued after the men had appeared in court, he said: "Today's first court appearance has outlined some concerning and distressing details about a suspected terrorist plot that we allege was being planned by suspects from Greater Manchester."

"Firstly, we know how significant the impact of this will be. Particularly for our Jewish community in Greater Manchester and across the country."

"We have worked closely with the Community Security Trust, community groups and key stakeholders prior to today's hearing, and we will continue to update them and support them throughout the course of this case."

"The wider public will understandably be alarmed too."

Police say the charges against all three men follow 'a long-running and carefully-managed investigation'.

ACC Potts added: "We are committed to making sure all communities are safe, and we do not currently believe there is any wider risk directly connected to this case. We also know it's important that communities feel safe. Local officers will continue to listen and act on concerns alongside partners to protect the public and keep you safe."

"This is a reminder that the threat of terrorism always remains, but also of how hard our specialist officers are working to prevent our communities from suffering harm. If you do see anything suspicious or have concerns, please call the police and we will do whatever is necessary to keep you safe."

The men were arrested last week after GMP executed four warrants in Bolton, Great Lever, Abram and Hindley. The force said officers had been patrolling the areas in the days following, but police cordons have all since been lifted.

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