Two brothers and an accomplice have been convicted after police foiled a chilling plan to attack the Jewish community in Greater Manchester. At Preston Crown Court on 23 December 2025, the trio were found guilty of terrorism offences.
The convicted individuals are Walid Saadaoui from Abram, charged with preparing terrorist acts; Amar Hussein, with no fixed address, also charged with preparing terrorist acts; and Bilel Saadaoui from Hindley, charged with failing to disclose information about terrorism.
In late 2023, Walid Saadaoui contacted someone online whom he believed to be a fellow extremist. In reality, this was an undercover officer named “Farouk.” Walid then introduced Farouk to Amar Hussein. Together, Walid and Amar conspired to carry out a brutal attack on the Jewish community, planning to smuggle automatic firearms into the UK for the attack.
The pair conducted surveillance of potential target areas, including Salford’s Upper Broughton, and monitored arms smuggling routes at the Port of Dover. Meanwhile, Walid’s brother Bilel was aware of the plot but chose to remain silent.
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts of Counter Terrorism Policing North West praised the officers involved, stating: “This was one of the most significant terror plot disruptions the UK has seen in years. Walid Saadaoui and Amar Hussein aimed to unleash a horrific attack driven by hate. Had they succeeded, the consequences would have been devastating – possibly one of the deadliest attacks on UK soil.”
He added, “Bilel Saadaoui wasn’t directly involved but knew enough to act. Silence in the face of terror is unacceptable.”
Potts also commended the undercover officer, saying, “Our undercover officer risked his life meeting these extremists and deserves our gratitude for protecting the public.” He confirmed ongoing cooperation with the Jewish community and partners such as the Community Security Trust to provide reassurance during these worrying times.
Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson QPM also expressed gratitude: “I thank Counter Terrorism Policing Northwest and the CPS for their tireless work in bringing these violent men to justice. Their hateful plans targeted innocent lives but were stopped by outstanding police work.”
He continued, “The ongoing threat to our Jewish community, both here and abroad, demands vigilance. A terror attack against our Jewish friends and neighbours is an attack on us all.”
“Greater Manchester Police will continue to stand with all communities to keep people safe, no matter their race or religion,” Sir Stephen added.
All three men remain in custody and are scheduled to be sentenced at Preston Crown Court on 13 February 2026.
Originally published by UKNIP.
