Bucks Free Press : Terror Case May Not Begin Until 2008

Terror case may not begin until 2008

staff reporter | Bucks Free Press | September 5, 2006

THE two High Wycombe men accused of plotting an international terrorist strike may not face trial until 2008, a court heard yesterday.

The eight British Muslims charged with terrorism offences appeared at the Old Bailey via video link from Belmarsh Prison for a preliminary hearing. They spoke only to confirm their names.

Umar Islam (born Brian Young), 28, and Assad Ali Sarwar, 26, both from High Wycombe, were arrested on August 10 after the largest anti-terror raid ever in the UK. It is claimed the suspects plotted to kill thousands of people by smuggling liquid explosives onto aircraft bound for the US, assembling the bombs in mid-air then committing suicide.

Prosecutor Colin Gibbs told the court a trial of all eleven defendants could last between five and eight months.

Three others also charged with the conspiracy to murder did not come before the court.

Mrs Justice Rafferty adjourned the hearing and remanded all eight into custody.