Former Student Convicted For Possessing Bomb-Making Video

Adam Mahmood, 20, of Platt Brook Way, Sheldon, was arrested at his home in April 2024 after counter-terrorism officers received intelligence that he had accessed extremist content. His phone was seized and forensically examined.

Jurors at Birmingham Crown Court were told that detectives identified a 15-minute instructional video demonstrating how to construct an explosive device. An expert witness assessed the recording and concluded that the guidance was clear and could be followed even by someone with no specialist training, making it “incredibly dangerous in the wrong hands.”

The court heard that Mahmood had deliberately searched online for the video. Further extremist material, including graphic propaganda and execution footage, was also discovered.

When his bedroom was searched, officers recovered a number of weapons, including several knives. A partly-constructed sword was also found, which linked to messages on Mahmood’s phone in which he discussed making such a weapon.

During police interview, Mahmood admitted writing the messages and accepted ownership of the weapons. He denied, however, being a terrorist.

Detective Chief Superintendent Alison Hurst, head of Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands, said:

“Videos found on Mahmood’s phone were dangerous and showed extreme violence. The instructional video was particularly concerning because it provided a clear, accessible method of constructing explosives.”

Mahmood was convicted of possessing information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism. He will be sentenced at a later date.

Well, that’s all for now. But until our next article, please stay tuned, stay informed, but most of all stay safe, and I’ll see you then.