Trial set over alleged plot to attack Jewish community

The men were charged after being arrested at addresses in Wigan

Two men who are accused of plotting to carry out a gun attack on the Jewish community in the north-west of England are to go on trial next autumn.

Walid Saadaoui, 36, and Amar Hussein, 50, are accused of preparing acts of terrorism between 13 December 2023 and 9 May.

The charge against them alleges they "made arrangements for the purchase of delivery of firearms, conducted reconnaissance and made plans of attack".

Mr Saadaoui's brother, Bilel, 35, is charged with failing to disclose information about acts of terrorism.

Prosecutors allege two of the men planned an attack with automatic weapons

All three defendants appeared by videolink from custody for a hearing at the Old Bailey before Mr Justice Jeremy Baker.

Prosecutor Jocelyn Ledward said: "The case concerns primarily so far as the first two defendants are concerned a plan to conduct an Isil or Daesh-inspired terrorist attack in the UK".

She said it was alleged they "intended to cause multiple fatalities using automatic guns."

"The main targets of the attack plans were the Jewish community in the north-west of England, members of law enforcement and military," she added.

"The prosecution allege they took significant steps to prepare for that attack."

Mr Justice Baker said a 12-week trial would take place at Preston Crown Court from 7 October 2025.

Further hearings at the Old Bailey were set for 25 October and 20 December this year.

Walid Saadaoui, of Crankwood Road, Abram, Wigan, Bilel Saadaoui, of Fairclough Street, Hindley, Wigan and Amar Hussein, of no fixed abode, spoke to confirm their identities during the hearing.

The defendants were further remanded into custody.