Three individuals with Nazi affiliations were found guilty of planning a terrorist attack, having amassed a collection of around 200 weapons. Their intentions included targeting mosques and synagogues in the UK.
A significant find was a nearly operational 3D-printed firearm. Authorities intervened after a covert agent infiltrated their group, preventing the potential attack.
The accused—34-year-old Christopher Ringos, and two 25-year-olds, Canoc and Marco Pithoset—hailed from Derby and West Yorkshire.
They openly expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler and propagated anti-immigrant sentiments, sharing materials linked to far-right figure Tommy Robinson. Conversations revolved around possible assaults on immigrant housing.
The Sheffield Crown Court found them guilty of several terrorism-related and firearms offenses, with judges indicating they could face lengthy prison sentences.
Among their arsenal were decommissioned guns and weapons like crossbows and hunting knives that they intended to repair.
The 3D-printed gun was made following online instructions, needing only some additional parts to become functional.
They identified specific Islamic centers in Leeds as targets, meticulously plotting their attack routes and discussing evasion tactics.
Ringos positioned himself as a leader, establishing group rules for members who donned Nazi-style apparel.
This group, which he termed Enats 14 after Nazi death squads, also had Pithoset and Ringos as designated “armers.”
Members criticized other radical factions for their inaction, with Stewart voicing his frustrations over messaging platforms like Telegram, asserting that “action speaks louder than words.”
He shared ambitions of further violence, including raiding government buildings and dealing with perceived political adversaries.
The group was intercepted on February 20, 2024, following the agent’s infiltration.
Targets under consideration included religious centers and places of worship, with one member sharing troubling posts on social media.
Stewart, who had no stable employment, lived with his mother. Just weeks before his arrest, he detailed plans for attacks during a phone conversation.
Prosecutor Jonathan Sandyford KC highlighted that the defendants had pinpointed targets, underscoring the imminent danger that led to their arrests.
During the trial, Stewart revealed his extremist inspirations, discussing a desire to execute plans against immigrants.
DCI James Dunkerley, leading counterterrorism efforts in the Northeast, emphasized the serious threat posed by the three individuals.
As the trial proceeds, concerns linger about the catastrophic potential had their plans been fully realized.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 17th.
