In a disconcerting turn of events, Mohammed Uddin, a 38-year-old former security guard, has once again found himself behind bars for violating parole regulations.
Uddin, who had previously been imprisoned in 2016 for attempting to join ISIS, was released on parole in December 2019.
However, his recent arrest in February 2023 reveals a troubling pattern of defiance against parole conditions.
Background:
Uddin’s journey into extremism began when he, living in Barking, East London, traveled to Syria in late 2014 to join ISIS.
Frustrated with the delayed military training, he attempted to return to the UK, leading to his arrest in Turkey on December 12, 2014.
Upon his return to Britain, he faced charges related to terrorist activities, resulting in a seven-year prison sentence in 2016.
Breach of Parole:
Despite being deemed a ‘danger to the public,’ Uddin was released on license in December 2019.
However, in a disturbing recurrence of his disregard for the law, he was found possessing two secret phones and a tablet during a police search in February 2023.
This blatant breach of his Parole Board release license prompted his return to prison.
Legal Proceedings:
At the Old Bailey, Uddin admitted to five counts of breaching notification requirements under the Counter Terrorism Act 2008.
The judge, Mr. Justice Jeremy Baker, highlighted the gravity of Uddin’s past offenses, emphasizing his radicalization in support of ISIS and his attempts to join the terrorist organization.
Previous Offenses:
During his initial involvement with ISIS, Uddin had messaged a friend about the seemingly easy entry into Syria.
However, his enthusiasm waned, and he expressed a desire to leave the jihadist environment.
This experience shed light on the complexities of his radicalization and disillusionment with extremist ideologies.
Sentencing and Outlook:
The judge, foreseeing limited prospects for rehabilitation, handed Uddin a 15-month sentence with an extended license period of one year.
This decision underscores the severity of Uddin’s repeated offenses and the urgency for corrective measures.
Naseer Taj’s Involvement:
In a related incident, Naseer Taj, a friend of Uddin, also faced legal consequences for planning to join ISIS.
Taj, a taxi driver, expressed support for ISIS on social media and intended to travel to Syria.
Convicted of preparing terrorist acts and possessing extremist material, Taj received an eight-year and three-month prison sentence.
Law Enforcement Response:
Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, emphasized the stringent monitoring of individuals with terrorism convictions.
He reiterated the seriousness with which law enforcement treats parole violations and the commitment to prosecuting offenders who fail to comply with their conditions.
Conclusion:
The case of Mohammed Uddin and his recurrent entanglement with extremist ideologies highlights the persistent challenges in tackling radicalization and ensuring the rehabilitation of individuals with a history of terrorism-related offenses.
The legal system’s response underscores the gravity of such breaches and the imperative to address the complex dynamics of radicalization for long-term public safety.
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