Trial Reveals Islamist Preacher’s Wife Warned Him About Online Speeches
A bug placed in the home of radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary has provided evidence to a jury, despite Choudary denying leading the terrorist organization al-Muhajiroun.
In Woolwich, a trial revealed that Anjem Choudary’s wife warned him about inviting unknown people to listen to online speeches, unaware that undercover U.S. law enforcement officers were recording the lectures.
According to prosecutor Tom Little, Choudary filled the void at the top of al-Muhajiroun while its spiritual leader Omar Bakri Mohammed was in prison in Lebanon. Choudary denies being a member of a proscribed organization and directing a terrorist group.
The trial played an audio clip from a covert bug placed in Choudary’s London home, capturing a conversation where he discussed connections in America, his lectures to the Islamic Thinkers Society, and various other topics.
Choudary’s speeches avoided explicitly advocating violence, but referenced jihad, battlefield, and Islamic figures, all under subtle and nuanced language.
In one speech, Choudary referred to being labeled an extremist or fanatic as a badge of honor and delivered a lecture on the anniversary of 9/11 with provocative messages.
Choudary claimed his speeches were misinterpreted by the police and that he wanted Muslims and Christians to live peacefully side by side. The trial is ongoing, with undercover officers expected to provide evidence soon.
