An IT consultant from the UK decided to leave his job and travel to Syria through Turkey to participate in the civil war and join jihadist groups. Isa Giga, 32, who worked at the technology company ANS, informed his family that he was going to Birmingham but instead flew to Syria with the intention of becoming a martyr for the Jaysh al Fath terrorist organizations.
Back in 2015, Giga abruptly resigned from his position at ANS after just five months, flew from Heathrow to Turkey, and then crossed into Syria. In subsequent communications with his family, he expressed his commitment to fighting for jihad against the Assad regime and ISIS, stating that he felt compelled to act to protect fellow Muslims in need.
Despite his family’s attempts to convince him to return, Giga remained resolute in his decision, stating that he had no intention of leaving Syria. Eventually, he was sentenced to nine years in prison, with an additional year on license, for preparing terrorist acts. Giga denied the charges, claiming he went to Syria for private religious studies, but was convicted nonetheless.
His family’s emotional responses to his actions and their efforts to reach out to him were documented in the emails exchanged with Giga. Despite their pleas, he remained steadfast in his resolve to stay in Syria and continue his involvement in the conflict.
Giga’s case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with individuals leaving their home countries to participate in conflicts abroad, as well as the legal repercussions they may face upon their return.
