Two men accused of planning Islamic State-inspired gun attack on Jewish community to go on trial in Preston

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

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

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

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

Summarising the allegations, 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 during which it is alleged that 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.

“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 October 7 next year.

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

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

The defendants, who appeared from Wormwood Scrubs, were further remanded into custody.