A key associate of the British Al-Qaeda leader Dhiren Barot is set to be released from prison despite concerns about potential reoffending. The Justice Secretary made a final attempt to prevent Abdul Aziz Jalil, 53, from being freed after the Parole Board approved his release. Jalil had been sentenced to 26 years in 2007 for his involvement in an Al-Qaeda cell aiding Barot in planning bomb attacks in New York and London. However, he will now be released after serving 19 years.
Recent records show that Jalil had been released from prison twice before but was most recently recalled in March last year for breaching his license by searching for weapons and drones online and accessing a Reddit forum. Despite the Justice Secretary’s plea for reconsideration, the Parole Board’s judicial member, HHJ Jeremy Roberts KC, rejected the request, stating that Jalil’s interest in military publications did not indicate a terrorist intent.
While acknowledging concerns about Jalil potentially engaging in serious criminal activities in the future, HHJ Roberts KC upheld the Parole Board’s decision to release him, citing no flaws in their judgment. Jalil will be subject to stringent counter-terror monitoring upon his release. He was among seven individuals sentenced in 2007 for a total of 136 years for their roles in aiding Barot’s terror plans.
Jalil, from Luton, played a significant role as Barot’s trusted aide, providing logistical support and aiding in planning attacks. He had rented a safe house for Barot and was involved in researching radioactivity and attending terror camps in Pakistan. Despite his release, Jalil will be closely watched to prevent any further involvement in extremist activities.