LONDON: A former British soldier alleged to have fought alongside Kurdish forces battling the Daesh group in Iraq and Syria was charged on Wednesday for receiving terrorism training in a landmark case.
James Matthews, 43, is believed to be the first person to be prosecuted for terrorism in Britain for assisting a group helped by the British government.
Matthews was charged “with attending a place or places in Iraq and Syria where instruction or training was provided for purposes connected to the commission or preparation of terrorism,” the police said.
Hundreds of foreign fighters from countries like Britain, Canada, France, Germany and the United States have fought alongside the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) in northern Syria.
The group is a key component of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces alliance which waged a successful campaign against Daesh terrorists.
Dozens of foreign fighters have been killed.
The charge against Matthews is thought to be the first of its kind for returning YPG fighters.
Matthews wore black jeans and a brown leather jacket and was greeted by a small group of supporters who then filled the public gallery for the hearing as he arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London.
Speaking after the hearing, 39-year-old supporter June Ayteen told the Press Association news agency: “It is very unprincipled of the British government to be taking this stance. It is unjust.”
Another supporter, 30-year-old Red Rosa, said: “I am here to support James because I think it is really inspirational when people put their life on the line to fight for this common struggle, which is really an international struggle.
“He has left his comfort in London to fight for his principles and fight for freedom,” she said.
Matthews spoke only to confirm his identity and his next court hearing has been set for March 1.
Meanwhile, London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed a man who posted a number of images online promoting Daesh has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for encouraging terrorism.
Snaresbrook Crown Court heard how Shafi Mohammed Saleem (left), 28, of east London used in excess of 20 Twitter and Instagram handles to share his “poisonous” pro-Daesh messages between 2016 and 2017, a statement read.
Detectives from the Met arrested Saleem at his home address on 19 April 2017 after launching an intelligence-led investigation into his online activities.
Commander Dean Haydon, of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “I cannot underplay the importance of bringing before the courts people who tweet subversive messages promoting Daesh. Every tweet has the potential to radicalize vulnerable people.”
UK charges ex-soldier for terror training in Iraq, Syria
UK charges ex-soldier for terror training in Iraq, Syria
