‘Anglo Jihadi’ Jailed for Life Over Shopping Centre Terror Plot
‘Anglo Jihadi’ Jailed for Life Over Terror Plot

Jordan Richardson, a 21-year-old Muslim convert from Howden in East Yorkshire, has been handed a life sentence for meticulously planning a devastating terror attack on a major shopping centre. The self-styled "Anglo Jihadi" was convicted at Leeds Crown Court after being caught with a handwritten recipe for mustard gas in his rucksack, alongside other incriminating evidence.

Detailed Terror Plans Uncovered

Richardson, who worked as a gym receptionist, was arrested on 19 December 2024 while on his way to work in nearby Goole. A search of his belongings revealed chilling handwritten notes outlining a brutal attack strategy. One note explicitly detailed: "Reach hidden vantage point, apply gas mask, outfit, load crossbow, throw all grenades into crowd, shoot bystanders, stab anyone who come close, do not get taken alive."

Chemical and Explosive Research

A second note contained precise ingredients and instructions for manufacturing mustard gas, a notorious chemical warfare blister agent used in the First World War that can prove fatal if inhaled. Additionally, police investigations uncovered that Richardson had accessed an ISIS bomb-making video, the same one utilised by the Manchester Arena bomber, which demonstrated how to produce the high explosive TATP.

Weapons Cache and Online Activity

Upon searching his flat, authorities recovered a combat knife in a sheath, a crossbow purchased from an online store, and 11 crossbow bolts. The court heard that Richardson spent much of his time in his flat playing on his Xbox and engaging in online chats, following his mother moving away and a breakup with his girlfriend.

Judge's Stern Remarks

During sentencing, Mrs Justice Cheema-Grubb stated emphatically: "But for the disruptive action of counter-terrorism police you would have committed that act within weeks." She dismissed Richardson's defence that his online communications were merely part of a fantasy role-play, asserting: "The jury rejected that account and so do I."

The judge highlighted his "genuine ideological commitment to violent jihad" and noted he was "not on the path to deradicalisation." She sentenced him to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years.

Convictions and Implications

Richardson was found guilty of preparing acts of terrorism by acquiring weapons, researching explosive substances, identifying potential locations, and considering the necessary steps for an attack. He was also convicted on three counts of encouraging terrorism and two counts of possessing bomb-making instructions useful for terrorism.

This case underscores the ongoing vigilance required by counter-terrorism units in the UK to prevent such planned atrocities, particularly targeting crowded public spaces like shopping centres.