Manchester bombers brother denies attempted murder charges in prison court case
The brother of the Manchester Arena bomber, Hashem Abedi, has denied multiple attempted murder charges against prison officers. This incident occurred at a maximum-security facility where he is currently serving a life sentence for his involvement in the 2017 bombing.
Incident Overview
Abedi, aged 28, appeared via video link at the Old Bailey from HMP Belmarsh on a recent Friday. The prosecution, led by Jocelyn Ledward KC, presented the case as having a terrorist connection. According to Ledward, the incident happened during a period when Abedi was allowed to use cooking equipment.
Details of the Attack
- Abedi allegedly attacked three prison officers using hot cooking oil and makeshift weapons he crafted.
- During the assault, he reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” twice.
- A fourth officer was also targeted during this violent episode.
Background Information
The prosecutor noted that there was no previous hostility between Abedi and the officers involved. However, his extremist beliefs were evident, stemming from his prior conviction related to the Manchester Arena bombing. In May 2017, Abedi’s brother, Salman Abedi, detonated a bomb at an Ariana Grande concert, resulting in 22 fatalities.
Legal Proceedings
The attack on prison staff occurred on April 12, 2023, at HMP Frankland in County Durham. Hashem Abedi is currently serving a whole-life sentence with a minimum term of 55 years for his role in facilitating the bombing, which represents the longest minimum term imposed by a British court.
In court, Abedi stated he did not wish for legal representation. He entered a plea of not guilty to three counts of attempted murder and one count of actual bodily harm. The trial is set to begin on January 18, 2027, and is expected to last between two to three weeks. A provisional hearing has been scheduled for January 30, 2026.
Justice Bobbie Cheema-Grubb inquired if he wanted an attorney for these proceedings. Abedi’s response was dismissive, indicating his intent to avoid attending court. He was subsequently remanded into custody.
