Islamist terrorist convicted of travelling to Somalia to join Daesh

*** Press release issued on behalf of Counter Terrorism Policing South East ***

An Islamist extremist was convicted yesterday (18/8) of travelling to Somalia to join the terrorist group Daesh, following an investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE).

Mohamed Mohamoud, of Francombe Grove, Horfield, Bristol, was found guilty by unanimous jury of preparation of acts of terrorism, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, following a three-week trial at Winchester Crown Court.

The 22-year-old Somalian-born security guard, travelled to back to his homeland to join the Islamist terrorist group, which is proscribed in the UK.

Mohamoud, purchased a ticket for a flight from Heathrow to Somalia via Ethiopia on 13 January 2025, leaving on 30 January and returning on 3 March last year.

CTPSE officers attended his home on 20 January this year to arrest him and seized his digital devices, including his Samsung Galaxy mobile phone.

When the phone was examined, data showed it had been present in various locations around Somalia during January and March 2025.

They also located a Telegram chat thread in which Mohamoud asked for help to travel to Somalia so that he could join the ‘Mujahedeen’. He stated in a message that his ambition was to become a ‘martyr’.

Videos were located on the phone showing he held an Islamist ideology. They included Daesh propaganda featuring news reels, beheadings, executions and footage of combat and battlefield scenes.

On his return to the UK, further messages were found in which Mahmoud stated his intention was to commit himself to jihad.

He was charged in connection with the offence on 26 January this year.

Detective Chief Superintendent Oliver Wright, Head of CTPSE, said: “Mohamoud had become radicalised to adopt an extremist Islamist ideology and travelled to Somalia with the intention of joining Daesh.

“It is important to note that Mahmoud communicated to others about his intentions to travel to commit jihad and become a ‘martyr’.

“If you become aware of anyone whose behaviour may have changed, who has adopted extreme views and is expressing similar intentions, please ensure you report this to police. Reporting can save lives.”

Anyone who sees or hears something that could be terrorist-related should call police in confidence on 0800 789 321. In an emergency, always dial 999. 

Visit gov.uk/ACT for more information, including how to report extremist or terrorist content that is online. You can use resources such as Internet Matters for practical safety advice. Seek early help if you are worried about radicalisation, visit ACT Early for guidance.