Man charged with terror offence after arrest at St James’s hospital in Leeds

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A man has been charged with a terror offence after being arrested at St James’s hospital in Leeds last Friday.

Mohammad Farooq faces one charge of engaging in an act of terrorism, one charge of possessing an imitation firearm, and one charge of keeping an explosive with intent to endanger life or property.

Farooq, 27, from Leeds, has been remanded in custody ahead of a hearing at Westminster magistrates court on 27 January, where he will appear by video link.

DCS James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: “We understand people may have concerns following last week’s arrest and the resulting charges.

“For Counter Terrorism Policing and its partners, public safety remains our priority at all times and an extensive and thorough investigation has led to the charges brought today. These inquiries have confirmed our initial assessment that this was an isolated incident.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve received from the public during this investigation. We’d particularly like to thank the staff and patients at St James’s hospital for their patience and cooperation throughout the disruption last Friday.”

Nick Price, head of the CPS special crime and counter-terrorism division, said: “The CPS has authorised Counter Terrorism Police North East to charge a man with a terrorism offence after he was arrested outside St James’s hospital in Leeds last Friday.

“Mohammad Farooq, 27, of Leeds, has been charged with preparation of a terrorist act, contrary to the Terrorism Act 2006. He has also been charged with possession of an explosive substance and possession of an imitation firearm.

“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mohammad Farooq are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.”