Plot foiled: How collaboration brought terror suspects to justice
Case study from Serious Crime and Counter Terrorism Division
Chief Crown Prosecutor, Serious Crime and Counter Terrorism Division
“In November 2023, the CPS became involved in one of the most significant counter-terrorism cases in recent years. Had the terrorists succeeded, it would have been one of the deadliest attacks on the UK’s Jewish community.
“From the beginning, we had a strong partnership with the police. An undercover officer built up a relationship with the primary terrorist, Walid Saadaoui, to gather vital evidence. His work was critical. He made sure the plot failed and secured compelling evidence directly from the terrorists on their long-held beliefs, ISIS credentials and intention to destroy lives.
“We faced an early dilemma. The police could have arrested Saadaoui on his social media activity alone, but those charges would not have reflected the true scale of the threat. The police had to manage the risk on a daily basis, whilst we advised on the strength of the evidence as events unfolded. As a result, a decision was taken that the investigation had to continue.
“The case involved three defendants. Walid Saadaoui was the primary instigator. Amar Hussein was recruited for his military experience. Saadaoui’s brother Bilel was charged with failing to disclose information about the plot.
“Success in cases like this comes from a collective effort. We had the support of colleagues throughout the 12-week trial and the expertise of counsel.
“The victims were central to everything we did, and we worked hard to build trust with the Jewish community, standing alongside them throughout.
“The two main terrorists were sentenced to life imprisonment in February 2026, with Bilel Saadaoui receiving six years. This was a significant counter-terrorism prosecution and I’m immensely proud of every colleague who played a part. “