Four men have been jailed for a total of nearly 30 years after using a WhatsApp group to share Islamic State propaganda and fund terrorism, in a landmark case led by Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands.

The investigation revealed a disturbing use of encrypted messaging to promote terrorism and raise thousands of pounds in illicit funds. The convictions mark a significant win for UK counter-terror efforts in tackling online radicalisation.

The WhatsApp Terror Plot

Between 2022 and 2023, the group—Mohammed Hamad, Roshman Azad Wali Saeed, Tshko Ahmad Mohamad, and Omar Hussain Ahmadi—used WhatsApp to disseminate graphic terrorist content and coordinate funding for Islamic State (IS).

• Mohammed Hamad (30): Pleaded guilty to two charges of dissemination of terrorist material – sentenced to 4 years.
• Roshman Azad Wali Saeed (30): Convicted of six charges, including terrorist funding – sentenced to 12 years.
• Tshko Ahmad Mohamad (33): Sentenced to 7 years for fundraising offences.
• Omar Hussain Ahmadi (24): Received 5 years and 4 months after £7,000 was discovered concealed in baby milk tins at Stansted Airport.

How the Plot Was Uncovered

Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands led the operation, uncovering:

• Over £4,000 in cash
• 30 SIM cards
• Multiple encrypted phones
• Graphic content promoting Islamic State atrocities

Detective Superintendent Annie Miller said:

“This group chat promoted propaganda and raised funds for IS activities, which is entirely unacceptable.”

Public Safety and Community Reaction

The operation has been praised online, with one user posting on X:

“Great work by police keeping us safe from these dangerous networks.”

Although no physical attack took place, authorities confirmed that the potential threat was significant, reinforcing the need for vigilance in spotting online radicalisation.

How to Report Extremism

Community vigilance is critical. Here’s how to help stop terrorism:

• Recognise signs: Sudden changes in behaviour, interest in extremist content
• Report online: Visit gov.uk/ACT
• Use emergency services: Dial 999 for immediate threats
• Follow Prevent guidance: Share resources and raise awareness

The Role of Technology

While platforms like WhatsApp offer privacy through encryption, they also risk being exploited by extremists. UK agencies, including the National Cyber Security Centre, stress the need for:

• Cyber awareness
• Device security
• Reporting misuse through digital channels

Wider Context: UK Counter-Terrorism in 2025

The case reflects the UK’s growing challenge in tackling online extremism. Recent incidents, including a Kneecap band member facing terror charges, show how digital platforms can be co-opted for extremist use.

The Sentinel Current’s UK Crime Series continues to track developments in public safety, radicalisation, and digital policing efforts.

Conclusion

The jailing of Hamad, Saeed, Mohamad and Ahmadi marks a major counter-terrorism success. As encrypted apps become tools of radical networks, police and the public must remain alert.

For updates on threat levels, visit MI5.gov.uk. To report concerns, use gov.uk/ACT or contact Crimestoppers anonymously.