Manchester Terrorism Trial

A terrorism trial has begun today at Manchester Crown Court which CST expects to be of interest and concern to the UK Jewish community.

The trial is expected to last for approximately three weeks. CST cannot be certain as to what information will be made public in the trial, nor the timeframe within which this will occur.

The defendant is Shasta Khan, of Oldham. She is charged with:

• Engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terrorism contrary to section 5(1) of the Terrorism Act 2006
• Three counts of possessing a record of information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism contrary to section 58 (1) of the Terrorism Act 2000.

Evidence will be presented which suggests that the defendant carried out research into the Jewish community of Greater Manchester.

CST has been in close contact with the North West Counter Terrorism Unit and is entirely satisfied that the police intervention was appropriate. Police cooperation with CST has been excellent throughout.

CST stresses that its security partnerships with Police and Jewish communal locations and events are rigorous and in correct proportion to the current threat.

For further updates please check the CST website and blog and follow CST on twitter.