Isolating ex-soldier forced to miss court

A FORMER British soldier who allegedly wanted to fight against so-called Islamic State alongside Kurdish militia in Syria has been unable to attend a hearing in his case because he is “self-isolating” in jail.

Daniel Edward Burke, 32, of Amberwood Drive, Manchester, is being held in custody after being charged with three terrorism offences.

It is alleged that between October 7 and November 5 last year he engaged in conduct with the intention to assist another person to commit, prepared or instigate an act of terrorism.

Between September 18 and November 2 last year, he allegedly entered into or became concerned in an arrangement with others to provide money and military equipment while having reasonable cause to suspect that it would or may be used for the purposes of terrorism.

He is further charged with engaging in conduct in preparation to commit, prepare or instigate an act of terrorism between October 7 and December 7 last year.

The defendant, who has allegedly expressed a desire to travel to Syria to fight for Kurdish militia, was charged following a port stop in December last year.

His case was brought before Mr Justice Sweeney at the Old Bailey.

The defendant, who formerly served in the Parachute Regiment, was unable to attend court by video link due to self-isolation in custody.

Upon his arrest, he allegedly told police: “I’m not a terrorist, you know I’m not a terrorist.

“I’ve done nothing but fight for this country.”

Funding terrorism carries a maximum sentence of 14 years but shorter sentences have been handed down for small sums of money transferred from family members to relatives in Syria.

He was further remanded into custody ahead of a plea hearing on May 7.