East London Man Jailed for Plotting Grenade Attack on Police Station
Mohammed Chowdhury, 24, from Bethnal Green, was nabbed in February 2020 after police uncovered his attempt to buy a grenade. A targeted operation stopped him before he could act.
Explosive Evidence Found on Devices and in Notes
Officers raided Chowdhury’s home and seized his digital devices. They discovered he had downloaded detailed guides on making explosives and bombs. Handwritten notes matched the bomb-making manuals and contained information on chemicals and explosive devices.
While behind bars awaiting trial, Chowdhury told family members he planned to target a police station with the grenade.
Guilty Pleas and Conviction Lead to Nine Years Inside
On 18 November 2020, Chowdhury admitted to four counts of possessing materials likely useful for terrorism. A trial in February 2021 found him guilty of attempting to possess an explosive with intent to endanger life, under the Explosives Act of 1883.
He was slammed with a nine-year sentence at the Old Bailey on 21 June 2021.
Met Police Warn the Public: Stay Alert, Report Suspicious Activity
“Chowdhury downloaded highly dangerous documents and tried seriously to obtain a hand grenade with plans to attack a police station,” said Commander Richard Smith of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.
“This conviction makes the public safer. The terrorist threat is real and ongoing. As life returns to normal and crowds return, we need the public’s vigilance more than ever.”
He urged anyone spotting suspicious behaviour to report immediately, “no matter how small it seems.”
If you notice anything suspicious, report it confidentially at gov.uk/ACT or call 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999.
