A man from Bristol has been converted of travelling to Somalia to join the terrorist group Daesh, following an investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE).

Mohamed Mohamoud was convicted on 18th August by unanimous jury of preparation of acts of terrorism, contrary to section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006.

The Somalian-born security guard had travelled back to the country to join the proscribed group.

Mohamoud, purchased a ticket for a flight from Heathrow to Somalia via Ethiopia on 13 January 2025, leaving on 30 January and returning on 3 March last year.

Officers attended his home on 20 January this year to arrest him and seized his digital devices.

Data on his phone showed that it had been present in various locations around Somalia during January and March 2025.

Messages in a Telegram chat showed that Mohamoud asked for help to travel to Somalia so that he could join the ‘Mujahedeen’. He stated in a message that his ambition was to become a ‘martyr’.

Daesh propaganda videos featuring news reels, beheadings, executions and footage of combat and battlefield scenes were also found on his phone.

He was charged on 26 January this year.

Detective Chief Superintendent Oliver Wright, Head of CTPSE, said: “Mahmoud had become radicalised to adopt an extremist Islamist ideology and travelled to Somalia with the intention of joining Daesh.

“It is important to note that Mahmoud communicated to others about his intentions to travel to commit jihad and become a ‘martyr’.

“If you become aware of anyone whose behaviour may have changed, who has adopted extreme views and is expressing similar intentions, please ensure you report this to police. Reporting can save lives.”