UK Duo Jailed for ISIS-Linked Plot

A UK court on Friday sentenced two men to life in prison for plotting a devastating ISIS-inspired shooting spree targeting the Jewish community in Manchester.

Walid Saadaoui, 38, and Amar Hussein, 52, were intercepted by an undercover agent while planning a “deadly” assault on an antisemitism march and subsequent attacks on local synagogues and schools.

The investigation revealed that the conspiracy, which took place between late 2023 and May 2024, involved extensive surveillance and a plan to smuggle a significant arsenal into the country.

Saadaoui, who reportedly idolised the mastermind behind the 2015 Paris massacres, attempted to secure four AK-47 assault rifles, two handguns, and 900 rounds of ammunition.

UK (News Central TV) — UK duo jailed for ISIS-linked plot. Credit: BBC

The plot was dismantled in May 2024 when Saadaoui was arrested in a sting operation involving 200 officers while attempting to collect deactivated firearms.

Judge Michael Wall of Preston Crown Court noted that the scheme would likely have been one of the “deadliest” in British history.

Saadaoui was handed a minimum term of 37 years, while Hussein, whom he recruited, received a minimum of 26 years.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.