Accused demands Islamic court hearing

A BRITISH Muslim demanded to be sentenced in an Islamic court after pleading guilty to two terror offences at the Old Bailey.

Jobless Atiq Ahmed (32) of Copster Hill Road, Oldham, had earlier told the court: “I want out of this land”, adding: “It’s a joke to me.”

At an earlier hearing he claimed: “I’m a religious person, but I’m not a terrorist. I’m a good person. I understand, I don’t get controlled by people who are liars, deceivers.”

But yesterday he admitted two charges brought under the Terrorism Act of disseminating terrorist publications. The offences relate to the posting of two short videos on his Google Plus account between January and March.

Judge Michael Topolski QC adjourned the case until September 21 for sentencing, saying Ahmed’s mental state would be an important factor.

Ahmed ranted as he left court: “This should be an Islamic court. This is an enemy of Islam court. People kill innocent people and blame us.” Ahmed muttered and rocked his head back and forth throughout the brief hearing.

Prosecutor Steven Gray said the Crown accepted the pleas on the basis that he was “reckless” about the effect his postings would have.”

Ahmed pleaded not guilty to a further charge of possessing material useful for terrorist purposes, which was allowed to lie on file.