Man, 33, accused of preparing for act of terrorism
COMMUNITY IN SHOCK AFTER COUNTER-TERROR INVESTIGATION
AN Iranian man has appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court accused of buying a knife and chemicals in preparation for a terror attack in the UK.
Fatah Mohammed Abdullah, 33, from Arthur’s Hill in Newcastle, is alleged to have bought a knife, a balaclava and “explosive pre-cursors” including chemicals, more than 8,000 matches and a number of fuses.
He is also alleged to have searched online for components, including a pressure cooker, to make an explosive.
Adbullah, who represented himself, wore a grey tracksuit, sported dark stubble and sat with his hands clasped behind his neck for most of the hearing. He faces one count of engaging, between April 9 and December 11, in the preparation of an act of terrorism, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.
Asked if there was anything he wanted to say Abdullah replied: “I just want to go home.”
The defendant was arrested in Newcastle on Tuesday in what police said was intelligence-led operation and part of an ongoing investigation by counter-terror detectives.
The court heard he came to the UK from Iran in 2005 and was granted leave to remain in 2010.
District Judge Kwame Inyundo remanded Abdullah in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on January 14.
Still reeling, residents have spoken of their shock as the community is still coming to terms with the ordeal.
Lilian Held was evacuated from her home for nine hours after the drama unfolded.
“I don’t want to be here anymore,” said the pensioner.
“It is like living in the pits. I’d say it is like New York, but it is worse than that.”
Lilian said she used to love the street and recalled how her son went to school nearby and how neighbours once knew everyone by name.
“If I could leave today though would,” she added. “Yesterday was the last straw.” Less than 24 hours after the events unfolded, the estate was in many ways back to normal.
One person who used to live in London expressed his fears over the I large police presence.
Empathising with locals, he said: “It is scary when this happens.”
One woman said she did not think some residents had returned home after they were evacuated from their properties.
For those who have lived on the street for years, some are still coming to terms with what happened.