Man accused of plot to assassinate Theresa May to face trial next summer

A man faces trial next summer over an alleged plot to assassinate the Prime Minister in a bomb and knife attack on Downing Street.

Naa'imur Zakariyah Rahman, 20, was charged with preparing acts of terrorism following his arrest on November 28.

According to the charge, he conducted reconnaissance of the target location, recorded a pledge of allegiance, purchased a rucksack, delivered a rucksack and bag to be fitted with an improvised explosive device and collected it "with a view to committing attacks against persons in the UK".

10 Downing Street
10 Downing Street

The Bangladeshi defendant, of Ballards Lane in Finchley, north London, also allegedly assisted 21-year-old Mohammad Aqib Imran in his terror plans.

On or before November 28, he recorded and sent to Imran "a sponsorship video in order for him to be accepted by Islamic State", the charge says.

Imran, of Ombersley Road in the Sparkbrook area of Birmingham, allegedly tried to join IS and faces a charge of preparing acts of terrorism.

His charge alleges he saved money to pay for a fake passport and travel to Libya, communicated with another online and sent two photos of his passport data to secure a fake passport.

Libyan flag
Libyan flag

He made online research into travel options and terrorist publications and had an Islamic State sponsorship video sent by Rahman, the charge says.

He also downloaded "How to survive in the West - a Mujahid's guide 2015", it is claimed.

The pair appeared before Mr Justice Haddon-Cave by video link from custody for the hearing to set a timetable for the case.

The senior judge set a trial before him at the Old Bailey from June 18.

He estimated the case would last up to five weeks.

A plea hearing will take place on June 4, the judge said.

The defendants, who were produced from Belmarsh jail, were remanded into custody.

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