Published: Wednesday, 14th May, 2008 12:00
Convicted terrorist fails to win freedom bid
By Court Reporter
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Mohammed Siddique is appealing against his conviction.
SCOTLAND’S first convicted Islamist terrorist failed in a bid to win his freedom on Tuesday.
Mohammed Siddique (21), from Alva, is trying to overturn the conviction which resulted in an eight-year jail sentence last October.
He hoped to be released on bail pending the outcome of his appeal.
But at the High Court in Edinburgh judge Lord Matthews turned down a request by lawyers for his release.
A four-week trial last year heard how Siddique told fellow students that he sympathised with Al-Quaida, wanted to become a suicide bomber and that his target would be central Glasgow.
He also shocked classmates at the city’s Metropolitan College with horror pictures of terrorist beheadings.
Siddique was also said to have set up websites urging others to commit terror acts and showing how to make and use explosives.
The trial heard that much of the chilling propaganda was aimed at English speakers.
Siddique has always claimed he is only a curious young man who found material on websites which could be accessed by anyone.
Siddique’s solicitor, Amaer Anwar, has an allegation of contempt of court hanging over his head as a result of statements he made following the trial.
Mr Anwar claimed the verdict was a tragedy for Scottish justice and free speech.
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