Qatada back in prison over 'escape plot' escape plot

A RADICAL Muslim preacher once described as Osama bin Laden's "right-hand man" in Europe is back in custody today after being suspected of plotting to flee the country.

Terror suspect Abu Qatada, who was freed from prison in June after a failed bid to deport him, had been held at his west London home.

But he is believed to have been planning to flee to Lebanon, despite not having a passport.

Qatada, 47, was arrested after the authorities received a tip-off. It is believed that the UK Borders Agency was told that Qatada was planning to leave the country, and an emergency session of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission was convened.

The Commission heard that Qatada had attempted to breach one of his 22 bail restrictions, and a judge ruled in favour of the Home Office's application to cancel bail as a temporary measure.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith then ordered Qatada's arrest and he was taken to Belmarsh prison.

Today Home Office lawyers will apply for him to be locked up permanently.