Strike Breaker And Suicide Bomber

Fri, 12 March 2010 Courtesy of: Sun Online

A British Airways worker planned to carry out a suicide bombing using a strike by cabin crew as cover, a court has heard.

IT expert Rajib Karim, 30, allegedly indicated he could be trained to stand in for striking cabin crew - and offered to use it as an opportunity for a terrorist attack.

Prosecutor Colin Gibbs said Karim had a "clear intention and desire" to offer himself for terrorist attacks and "achieve martyrdom".

“he allegedly moved to Britain specifically to obtain a UK passport for use in terror operations”

Karim is said to have asked al-Qaeda chiefs for permission and directions to carry out attacks in Britain.

He allegedly offered to travel to Yemen and Pakistan to be trained, and advised on contacts in the UK who could be recruited to help him carry out attacks.

Karim is also accused of sending terror chiefs information on how BA computer systems could be nobbled - causing huge financial losses - and advice on air passengers' liquid allowances, security scanners and immigration rules.

The allegations were revealed as Bangladeshi-born Karim appeared amid tight security at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London.

He is accused of plotting terrorist acts in Britain and overseas, and faces a further charge of terrorist fundraising.

The court heard he allegedly moved to Britain specifically to obtain a UK passport for use in terror operations.

Mr Gibbs said Karim was also accused of transferring money to Yemen and Bangladesh for terrorism. According to encrypted files allegedly found on his computer, Karim sent the cash for "suicide bombings, martyrdom and further acts of terrorism".

Karim spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. Lawyers made no application for bail. He is due in court again on March 26.

Three suspects held in Slough, Berks, after Karim's arrest - including a Heathrow airport baggage loader - have been released without charge.

Karim, who has a pregnant wife and young son, was arrested at BA's call centre in Newcastle on February 25.

BA sources last night confirmed Karim had applied for a place on the strike-busting cabin crew, but insisted he would not have passed strict security checks.