In a landmark international counter-terrorism investigation, radical preacher Anjem Choudary has been convicted of directing the banned terrorist organization Al-Muhajiroun, along with charges of membership and encouraging support for the group. The conviction, delivered at Woolwich Crown Court, marks a significant triumph for global counter-terrorism efforts.
The extensive operation was a collaborative endeavour involving the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command (CTC), MI5, the New York Police Department (NYPD), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). This joint effort spanned several continents, highlighting the global nature of modern terrorist threats and the necessary international response to effectively combat them.
Choudary, 57, from East London, faced a six-week trial that concluded on Tuesday, July 23, with his conviction. Alongside him, Khaleed Hussein, 29, from Edmonton, Canada, was also found guilty of membership of a proscribed organization. Both are set to be sentenced on July 30.
Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, lauded the operation, stating, “These convictions come as a result of some truly remarkable work – not only here in the UK by Counter Terrorism police and our colleagues in MI5 but also from the incredibly brave work of undercover officers both in the US and Canada.
The investigation into Choudary gained momentum following the expiration of his previous terrorism conviction license conditions in July 2021. Fears that he would reengage with terrorist activities prompted intensified surveillance and cooperation across borders.
Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland of the RCMP emphasized the critical role of international collaboration in the operation, stating, “This investigation is truly an example of how information and intelligence sharing and collaboration between countries is vital to stopping the spread of online extremism and radicalization.
Rebecca Ulam Weiner, NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, highlighted the significance of the multi-agency effort: “Anjem Choudary spent decades radicalizing individuals around the world and has now been brought to justice thanks to relentless collaboration across multiple agencies and countries.
The case against Choudary and Hussein involved meticulous work, including the analysis of hundreds of hours of audio and video content and over 16,000 documents. Key evidence included covert recordings and encrypted communications which demonstrated Choudary’s ongoing involvement in directing and promoting Al-Muhajiroun activities.
This historic case underscores the ongoing challenges posed by global terrorism and the critical need for cooperation across international lines to ensure public safety and security. The successful prosecution of Anjem Choudary and Khaleed Hussein not only disrupts a significant terrorist operation but also sends a strong message about the global commitment to countering extremism.
