Leeds: A self-radicalized lone attacker who planned a deadly hospital bombing has been sentenced to at least 37 years in prison.
Attack Plan
Mohammad Farooq, 29, built a pressure cooker bomb modeled after the 2013 Boston Marathon attack but with twice the explosive power. He intended to target the maternity wing of St. James’s Hospital in Leeds in January 2023.
Prosecutors revealed Farooq initially attempted to enter RAF Menwith Hill, a US military base in North Yorkshire. After failing to bypass security, he chose the hospital instead.
Foiled Attack
Farooq carried the explosive device into the hospital but abandoned his plan after speaking with patient Nathan Newby outside. Newby’s kindness and conversation convinced Farooq to reconsider.
Judge Mrs. Cheema-Grubb praised Newby, calling him an “extraordinary, ordinary man” who prevented a tragic event.
Martyrdom Plot
Prosecutors stated Farooq, influenced by extremist ideology, aimed to die as a “martyr.” His plan included setting off the bomb and then attacking people with knives.
After the explosion, he intended to provoke police into shooting him by wielding an imitation firearm.
Hospital Target
Farooq specifically targeted the hospital café during a shift change to “kill as many nurses as possible.” His plan was described as a “murderous terrorist attack” by the prosecution.
Life Sentence
Sheffield Crown Court sentenced Farooq to life in prison, requiring him to serve at least 37 years before parole consideration.
Newby’s Heroic Act
The court heard how patient Nathan Newby’s simple act of kindness “almost certainly saved many lives that night.”
Judge Cheema-Grubb called Newby a “modest and gentle man,” whose actions stopped a devastating attack.
Farooq later admitted to police that Newby had “talked him down” from committing mass murder.
Police Investigation
Authorities found Farooq had been researching extremist materials and constructing the bomb for months.
During interrogation, he expressed regret but insisted he was acting under ideological influence.
Public Reaction
Security experts emphasized the importance of vigilance and early intervention to prevent similar attacks.
Officials praised law enforcement and the justice system for preventing a large-scale tragedy.
Final Judgment
The court ruled that Farooq’s attack was premeditated and driven by extremist beliefs, making him a severe threat to public safety.
His conviction underscores the ongoing threat of radicalization and the crucial role of community awareness.
