Anjem Choudary, the radical British preacher, has been handed a life sentence for directing the banned terrorist group al-Muhajiroun, a UK judge ruled on Tuesday. The 57-year-old Choudary was found guilty by Woolwich Crown Court for his involvement with ALM, which was outlawed by the British government in 2010. Justice Mark Wall emphasized that Choudary's actions put many lives at risk, stating that he was at the forefront of running a terrorist organization that encouraged radical activities among young men.

Choudary's defense argued that by the time he began directing ALM, the organization was already a mere shell of its former self and not actively recruiting members. However, prosecutors highlighted that Choudary took over the leadership of ALM after its founder was imprisoned in Lebanon. The court heard "chilling" evidence during the trial, including Choudary's denial of the Holocaust and inappropriate remarks about the September 11 attacks, which Justice Wall referenced in sentencing.

One of Choudary's followers, Khaled Hussein, was also convicted for his involvement with the proscribed organization and was sentenced to five years in prison. Choudary, on the other hand, must serve a minimum of 28 years behind bars as part of his life sentence. The prosecutor revealed that ALM operated under various names, including the Islamic Thinkers Society in New York, where Choudary lectured. The case was described as historic as U.S. law enforcement officers collaborated with counterparts in Britain and Canada during the investigation.

Choudary's past conviction for supporting the Islamic State group and his continuous denial of promoting ALM presented a clearer picture of the danger he poses, according to Justice Wall. Despite Choudary's claims that ALM no longer existed, the court deemed his actions and beliefs as extremist and a threat to society. The sentencing marks a significant victory in the fight against terrorism and sends a strong message against those who incite radical activities.