A convicted terrorist involved in a plot to attack an Army base has been sent back to prison due to suspicions of owning a book related to the 9/11 attacks and secretly using a mobile phone, as reported by the Mirror.
Zahid Iqbal, inspired by Al-Qaeda, was released from prison in 2021, sparking controversy, prompting Justice Secretary David Lammy to step in. Iqbal, part of a group planning to use an explosive-laden toy car at a Territorial Army site in 2013, had his release revoked after authorities found him using a hidden mobile phone and deleting call logs.
Despite a psychologist’s uncertainty about his extremist contacts, Iqbal’s possession of a self-defense keychain and alleged interest in conspiracy theories and 9/11 books raised concerns. Lammy challenged the Parole Board’s decision to release Iqbal, citing irrationality.
The Parole Board’s judicial member, Michael Topolski KC, rejected Lammy’s objection but ordered a reevaluation of Iqbal’s case due to insufficient reasoning for the release decision. Iqbal will undergo a fresh review by a new panel to reassess his situation and behavior.
The upcoming review may involve testimonials from individuals who interacted with Iqbal, as well as input from prison specialists. Iqbal, sentenced to over 11 years for the planned attack in Luton, faced opposition to his release from Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp and Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy.
Iqbal was part of a terrorist group preparing an attack in Luton, intending to use a homemade bomb in a remote-controlled toy car. In 2013, he received a 16-year jail term for terrorism-related activities, including training in Pakistan and discussing weapon procurement.
The judge highlighted Iqbal’s ongoing risk to society and deemed the extended sentence necessary due to his persistent terrorist inclinations and dangerous behaviors. Iqbal and his accomplice were warned that their sentences allowed for recall to prison during their extended monitoring period, given their continued threat to public safety.
