RASC News Agency: Mohammad Chowdhury, a 41-year-old former British soldier from Ilford, East London, is currently facing trial for allegedly supplying £31,000 worth of night-vision equipment to Pakistan, intended for transfer to the Taliban in Afghanistan. “The Telegraph” reported that Chowdhury is under legal scrutiny in the UK, accused of raising funds and procuring military gear for the Taliban. Court documents from Old Bailey reveal that between 2017 and 2019, Chowdhury purchased approximately 12 night-vision devices from reputable British suppliers, later shipping the equipment to Pakistan.
Chowdhury was arrested in 2020 while employed as an X-ray technician in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). During his trial, he admitted to two charges of organizing support for “terrorist” activities and providing financial aid for these operations. His defense lawyer, Ann White, acknowledged that Chowdhury was fully aware the funds and thermal cameras would be used by the Taliban in their conflict against the Afghanistan government and coalition forces. The defense further conceded that Chowdhury had deliberately misrepresented the contents of the shipments to circumvent export bans. As a former British soldier, he was acutely aware of the military advantages these night-vision devices would confer on the battlefield.
At the time of these incidents, the Taliban were actively targeting both international and Afghanistan security forces, along with civilians and critical infrastructure. According to reports, Chowdhury had reached out to the Taliban via WhatsApp, expressing his dedication to “sacrificing everything” for what he called a “righteous cause.” He further highlighted his experience with weaponry as a former soldier in these communications. The thermal cameras, which were intercepted at customs at Stansted Airport, had the potential to substantially enhance the Taliban’s operational effectiveness during nighttime combat.
Despite the confiscation of this equipment, Chowdhury remained determined to continue supporting the Taliban, underscoring the severe risks posed by individuals collaborating with terrorist organizations. Since 2016, the Taliban have been using night-vision technology to bolster their night-time operations. Investigations revealed that Chowdhury also used an email address previously associated with fundraising campaigns for the Taliban’s military endeavors.
“The Telegraph” highlighted that this case underscores the ongoing national security challenges posed by individuals aiding terrorist organizations. Chowdhury’s trial is ongoing, and the court is expected to issue a verdict soon.
