Walid Saadaoui, 36, of Crankwood Road, Abram, and Amar Hussein, 50, of no fixed address, are accused of plotting a terror attack designed to cause “multiple fatalities using automatic weapons” in the North West of England, Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard on Tuesday.
The two men had intended to target “the Jewish community in the North West of England and members of both law enforcement and military” as part of an “Isil or Daesh-inspired terrorist attack”, prosecutors told the court.
Both are charged with the preparation of terrorist acts between December 13, 2023, and May 9, 2024.
Bilel Saadaoui, 35, of Fairclough Street, Hindley, also appeared before the court accused of making arrangements for Walid Saadaoui – who is his brother – after his death.
He pleaded not guilty to a charge of failing to disclose information about an act of terrorism between the same dates.
Hussein, who represented himself and had an interpreter, did not speak to confirm his name, date of birth or address.
The other two men spoke only to confirm their identities.
Angelo Saponiere, defending Bilel Saadaoui, said his client was a “family man” who had not known of the alleged plans.
The men were arrested last week after Greater Manchester Police (GMP) executed four warrants in Bolton, Great Lever, Abram and Hindley.
Police on scene in Great Lever as part of investigation (Image: Newsquest)
District Judge Louisa Cieciora remanded all three men into custody to appear at the Old Bailey on May 24.
Following the hearing, a GMP spokesperson said: “We’ve increased our patrols across Greater Manchester following yesterday’s (Tuesday) court hearing in London which outlined details of an alleged terror plot on the Jewish community in our region.
“We know how concerning and distressing this information will have been for Jews in GM and beyond.
“Our priority is ensuring everyone in GM feels safe regardless of their creed, colour, or nationality.
“Throughout this case, we will be working with community groups and key local stakeholders to ensure that any concerns are addressed.
“Our officers are there to be approached and spoken to should you have any concerns.
“Should you have any suspicions or concerns, speak to our officers or call 101. Call 999 in an emergency.”
