Two extremists who were involved in a deadly bomb plot targeting major locations in the UK, including a popular shopping centre and a nightclub, have been granted parole and released from prison.

Waheed Mahmood, 52, and Anthony Garcia, members of a terror cell, were jailed in 2007 for their involvement in the plot, which was aimed at killing hundreds of people.

The 2004 Terror Plot

The group, connected to al-Qaeda, had plans to carry out multiple bombings across the UK, using ammonium nitrate-based explosives.

Their targets included Kent’s Bluewater shopping centre, London’s Ministry of Sound nightclub, and even the country’s gas and electricity infrastructure.

In addition, they had aspirations of detonating a radioactive ‘dirty’ bomb and attacking the UK Parliament during Prime Minister’s Questions.

The plot, however, was foiled by MI5, which intercepted the terrorists’ communications.

Parole and Ongoing Restrictions

Despite being sentenced to life imprisonment, Mahmood and Garcia have both been released.

Mahmood was granted parole in September, and Garcia’s release followed shortly after.

This comes despite the judge’s stern warning during their 2007 trial that they had “betrayed this country” and may never be released.

Mahmood, a former British Gas boiler engineer, is reportedly challenging the Metropolitan Police’s efforts to impose a serious crime prevention order on him.

The order would restrict his freedoms, including his movements and access to technology, and enforce regular police check-ins.

Mahmood is currently under strict conditions, such as a GPS tag, a curfew, and mandatory lie detector tests.

He has also had to surrender his passport.

His parole was granted after a thorough review process by the Parole Board, which stated that public safety remains their top priority.

The Terrorists’ History

The pair were part of a five-man gang, led by Omar Khyam, along with Jawad Akbar and Salahuddin Amin.

The group had plans for a large-scale terrorist attack in 2004, acquiring 600kg of fertiliser to create bombs.

Surveillance footage also revealed their connections to two of the July 7 London bombers.

Mahmood, described as a key figure in the group, had even sent recruits abroad for terror training.

The gang had discussed a wide range of potential targets, from trains to government buildings, and even a British Airways plane in a potential suicide attack.

Foiled by Intelligence

The attack was narrowly avoided thanks to extensive surveillance and intercepted communications.

MI5 and anti-terrorism officers acted swiftly when the plot was nearing completion, leading to the arrest of the conspirators in March 2004.

Mahmood’s willingness to commit violence was evident in his comments following the 2004 Madrid bombings, in which he praised the attackers for their “beautiful job” and even discussed targeting Bluewater shopping centre.

Parole Board’s Decision

Despite the group’s history of violent intent, the Parole Board has allowed Mahmood and Garcia to be freed, stating that they undertook their parole reviews “thoroughly and with extreme care.”

The decision has raised concerns, given the severity of their original plot and the potential risk they may still pose to society.

While Mahmood and Garcia are now out of prison, other members of the gang, including Akbar, remain incarcerated, with their parole requests being denied.

The focus, however, is on whether Mahmood and Garcia pose any further threat, and authorities are closely monitoring their movements.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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