Briton 'tried to recruit terrorists'

A London chef ran an internet site to recruit Muslim terrorists for weapons training and the "Ultimate Jihad Challenge", the Old Bailey heard today.

His motivation to "assist and prepare for terrorism" was hidden behind a corporate front claiming to be Britain's first Islamic security firm, the jury was told.

Sulayman Balal Zainulabidin was using his London home as a base for "the pursuit-of the jihad or holy war against the perceived enemies of Islam," said Mark Ellison, prosecuting.

"The website page on the internet was called 'The Ultimate Jihad Challenge' and offered a two-week course in the United States with a practical emphasis on live firearms training. " Zainulabidin, 43, was born in London as Francis Asibong Etim but converted to Islam and changed his name in December 1979. He lived in Kidbrooke and worked as a chef in central London.

Zainulabidin has pleaded not guilty to a charge under the Terrorism Act of 2000 of inviting others to receive firearms instruction or training between February and October last year.

The trial continues.