Birmingham Brothers Plead Guilty to Terror Plot
Two brothers from Birmingham have admitted planning terrorism. Muhammad Abdul Haleem Heyder Khan, 21, and his younger sibling Muhammad Hamzah Heyder Khan, 18, pleaded guilty today (10 July) to preparing acts of terrorism under the Terrorism Act 2006.
Plot to Travel to Afghanistan Uncovered
The pair, from Ward End, were arrested by West Midlands Counter Terrorism Police on 2 November last year. Their trial started last week at Birmingham Crown Court but was cut short by their guilty pleas. Sentencing is set for 11 September.
The court heard the brothers became heavily radicalised throughout 2022. They prepared to head to Afghanistan to join and support terrorist activity. The pair bought clothes, gathered equipment, researched travel routes, and even filled in application forms for terrorist groups.
Police Praise Vigilance and Public Support
“We welcome today’s guilty pleas by the pair,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Mark Payne from West Midlands CTU. “The weight of evidence left them no choice but to admit their plans to join and fight for a terrorist organisation.”
“We will keep protecting communities by working closely with our partners and the CPS to pursue anyone backing terrorism. Our priority remains the safety of those who live, work, and visit the West Midlands.”
Public Urged to Help Stop Terrorism
Thousands of public reports help police crack down on threats each year. If you notice suspicious behaviour, trust your instincts and report it confidentially at gov.uk/ACT. Reporting won’t ruin lives—but staying silent could cost them. In an emergency, always dial 999.