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Man convicted of encouraging terrorism

A 25-year-old from Humberside has been convicted of encouraging terrorism and sharing terrorist material.

Following a two-week trial at Sheffield Crown Court, Muhammed Mahfuz Ahmed was found guilty of one offence of Encouraging Terrorism, contrary to Section 1 of the Terrorism ACT 2006, and four offences of Disseminating Terrorist Publications, contrary to Section 2 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

He was arrested in April 2024 as part of an intelligence-led operation by Counter Terrorism Policing North East. Evidence gathered from a search of his home demonstrated a deep-seated extremist mindset and an avid determination to share terrorist material online. This content promoted violent jihad and included official Daesh magazines and propaganda.

Ahmed used five different social media accounts over a five-month period, gaining more than 1,300 followers and 14,000 likes.

Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley said: “Ahmed was persistent and determined in his efforts to reach as many people as possible with his posts, which often included graphic content and glorified acts of terrorism. He went to considerable lengths to seek out and share material that could not easily be found on mainstream online platforms, using hashtags to appeal to a wider audience and encourage more followers.

“The potential impact of his actions should not be underestimated. By sharing Daesh propaganda, he has promoted their cause and intentionally extended the reach and influence of their ideology.

“Sharing extremist material online is not a victimless crime and may inspire others to act. We are working tirelessly alongside our partners to remove this content and identify those who seek to legitimise terrorism in this way.

Ahmed is due to be sentenced on 17 April.