Anjem Choudary Appeals Life Sentence for Terrorism
Notorious Preacher Fights Jail Term
Anjem Choudary, the infamous Islamist preacher jailed for directing terrorist group Al-Muhajiroun (ALM), has launched an appeal against his life sentence. The 57-year-old was locked up in July after being found guilty of leading ALM and inciting support by spreading extremist views online. Due to time already served, Choudary faces a minimum 26-year stretch behind bars — meaning he won’t be out until he’s at least 85.
Former Bodyguard Slams “Astronomical” Sentence
Despite the convictions, Choudary has appealed to the High Court, hoping to overturn the verdict and the hefty sentence. His ex-bodyguard Abu Izzadeen blasted the punishment as “astronomically high,” claiming it dwarfs sentences handed down for violent crimes.
International Probe Uncovered Radical Network
The case came from a joint investigation by the Metropolitan Police, New York Police Department, and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Officers revealed Choudary took control of ALM’s operations while founder Omar Bakri Muhammad was locked up in Lebanon. Court heard how Choudary fuelled radicalisation and spread extremist propaganda via the Islamic Thinkers Society (ITS), thought to be a slick cover for ALM’s activities.
Experts Condemn Appeal as a Waste of Resources
Terrorism expert Anthony Glees slammed the appeal as “an appalling waste of taxpayer cash,” stressing the ongoing danger Choudary’s influence poses. A senior security official warned Choudary’s leadership continues to be a “significant threat” to UK national security given ALM’s global reach.
Choudary’s appeal will be heard in the coming months, keeping the spotlight on his decades of extremist activity.
