A convicted terrorist who conspired to attack an Army base has been sent back to prison after authorities discovered he had a book related to the 9/11 attacks and was using a hidden mobile phone, according to information obtained by the Mirror.
Zahid Iqbal, inspired by Al-Qaeda, was released from prison in 2021, causing controversy as Justice Secretary David Lammy faced calls to intervene. Iqbal, part of a group planning to use a toy car filled with explosives on a Territorial Army facility in 2013, had his release revoked after police found him using a secret mobile phone and deleting call records.
Despite a psychologist’s uncertainty about his extremist connections, no concrete evidence of radical views was found. Allegations of possessing conspiracy theory books and materials related to 9/11 were not pursued due to insufficient proof. Lammy contested the decision to release Iqbal, labeling it irrational.
The Parole Board’s decision to overrule Lammy but order a new review highlighted concerns about insufficient reasoning behind the release directive. This decision means Iqbal will undergo another assessment by a fresh panel of experts, focusing on his conduct in prison and other relevant factors.
The upcoming review is expected to consider testimonies from individuals who interacted with Iqbal, as well as insights from specialists and officials who engaged with him while in custody. Iqbal, sentenced to over 11 years for the Luton attack plot, was deemed safe by the Parole Board earlier this year, prompting criticism from Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp and Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy, who urged Lammy to block his release.
Iqbal, part of a group planning the Luton attack using a remote-controlled toy car carrying a homemade bomb, was previously jailed for terrorism-related activities, including seeking training and discussing obtaining weapons. The extended sentences for Iqbal and his associate reflected their significant roles in the foiled plot, with the judge emphasizing their ongoing danger to society.
Considering their persistent involvement in terrorism and continued access to related materials, the judge justified the extended sentences as a means to protect the public. The terms of their release include the possibility of recall to prison during the subsequent five-year license period due to their perceived threat level.
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