Hospital worker sentenced to Life for plot to attack RAF Menwith Hill and St James’s Hospital

Mohammad Sohail Farooq (18.10.1995) has been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 37 years, for plotting to attack RAF Menwith Hill and St James’s Hospital.

Farooq was convicted of preparing for an act of terrorism last July. During a three-week trial at Sheffield Crown Court the jury heard how the clinical support worker from Leeds was inspired by Daesh propaganda to procure weapons and manufacture an explosive device in readiness for an attack.

Prior to trial, Farooq had already pleaded guilty to possessing an explosive substance with intent to endanger life, firearms offences, and the possession of terrorist material. On January 20, 2023 he was found in the grounds of St James’s Hospital by inpatient Nathan Newby, in possession of an improvised bomb, knives and an imitation firearm. Thankfully Mr Newby was able to calm and divert Farooq before seeking the help of police.

Read more: UK Counter Terrorism Policing