Failed Devon Bomber Admits Terror Charges

A 22-year-old Islam-convert has pleaded guilty to a failed terrorist attack in Devon earlier this year.

Nicky Reilly admitted charges of attempted murder and terrorism offences relating to the suicide bomb-bid at a restaurant in May.

The accused sustained serious injuries when the homemade explosive device detonated in his hands, as he attempted to assemble it in the Giraffe restaurant's toilets.

Reilly was arrested after emerging from the Exeter eatery, which was recorded on CCTV.

Appearing in court via a video link, Mohammad Rashid Saeed-Alim - as Reilly wishes to be known - pleaded guilty to two of four original charges.

In addition to attempted murder, he also admitted a charge of engaging in preparation for terrorism at the Old Bailey.

It is alleged Reilly used the internet to research bomb-making techniques.

He is understood to have made three devices using caustic soda, paraffin and nails.

Defence lawyer Kerim Fuad told the court: "His plan was to run out of the cubicle with all three bombs.

"There is much I wish to advance on behalf of this defendant's unusual and complex personal background which led to this ugly and dangerous incident."

Police have suggested Reilly, who reportedly suffers from learning difficulties, was "preyed upon and radicalised by others".

Presiding judge, Mr Justice Calvert-Smith, told the court Reilly had been supported by two unidentified people who had contacted him via an extremist website.

The judge said: "There is evidence from materials seized that he became increasingly drawn to violent action in support of fellow Muslims in revenge for perceived persecution, and to the idea of himself personally becoming a martyr.

"He told the police that he had long nursed an ambition to become a martyr."

Reilly was remanded in custody for sentencing on November 21.

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(PR)(BMcC)