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Three neo-Nazis are facing significant prison sentences after being found guilty of plotting a terrorist attack on a mosque in Leeds, with counter-terrorism police uncovering a chilling arsenal of over 200 weapons in their possession. The cache, discovered during raids on properties across Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire, included crossbows, swords, machetes, axes, a baseball bat, and numerous hunting knives, revealing the extent of their preparations.
Adding a disturbing dimension to the plot, an almost complete FGC-9 Mk II 3D-printed assault rifle was discovered in the loft of one of the suspects. While missing its barrel and firing pin, the court heard that the men were actively sourcing the remaining components to make the weapon fully operational, highlighting their intent to carry out a deadly attack.
Despite claiming in court that their stockpiling was preparation for a "shit hits the fan" scenario like a Russian invasion or zombie apocalypse, prosecutors successfully argued that the trio were in fact preparing for a race war. They had allegedly used "prepper" groups to recruit an inner circle, which then migrated to neo-Nazi chat groups before forming their own private communication channel as their plans for action solidified.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter-Terrorism Policing North East, condemned the group as a "self-styled militant online group" that espoused "vile racist views" and took "real world steps to plan and prepare for carrying out an attack on innocent citizens."
The potential for devastation was underscored by Bethan David, head of the Crown Prosecution Service's Counter-Terrorism Division, who stated that the 3D-printed firearm "could have been used to devastating consequences" had it been completed.
Crucially, the group was infiltrated by an undercover officer, providing key evidence of their intentions. In encrypted Telegram messages, Brogan Stewart, 25, from Tingley, Wakefield, expressed disillusionment with other far-right groups, stating his desire to form his own group where "action speaks louder than words."
Stewart appointed Christopher Ringrose, 34, from Cannock, Staffordshire, the builder of the 3D firearm, and Marco Pitzettu, 25, from Mickleover, Derby, as "armourers" for their planned operation.
A chilling telephone call convened by Stewart on February 5th revealed their plan to "cruise around" near an Islamic education centre in search of "human targets," with the intention to "do what whatever we do then back at mine for tea and medals and a debrief."
An intended meeting on February 18th to "hang out, bring ourselves closer together and just cement that brotherhood" before the attack did not materialize, as all three men were arrested on February 20th.
Following the trial, all three were unanimously found guilty of preparing acts of terrorism and possessing information useful for terrorism. Ringrose was additionally convicted of manufacturing the lower receiver for a 3D firearm, while Pitzettu had previously pleaded guilty to possessing a stun gun.
Presiding Judge Mrs Justice Cutts remanded all three in custody, stating that they must expect "substantial custodial sentences" when they are sentenced in July, bringing a measure of relief to a community targeted by their hateful plot.
