Alleged terror funder ‘sent Covid bounce back loans to ISIS’

From the London Evening Standard  and the Mirror

Tarek Namouz, 42, faces eight charges of funding terrorism between November 2020 and May 2021, as well as claims he had two videos which would be useful for a terrorist.

“The prosecution say he sent the proceeds of coronavirus ‘bounce back’ funding loans to ISIS”, said prosecutor Jonathan Polnay. The bounce bank loans, which were fully guaranteed by the Government, were intended to compensate firms for reduced trade during the Covid lockdowns. Bosses could apply for up to £50,000 or 25% of annual turnover. Banks were ordered to ease the usual checks. Many borrowers self-certified financial status.

Mr Justice Sweeney told the hearing: “Clearly this is a serious case”, and said it will be tried in front of Judge Peter Lodder QC at Kingston crown court.

Namouz appeared in court via videolink from HMP Wandsworth, speaking only to confirm his name and date of birth during the hearing. A plea and case management hearing was set for July 22, with a provisional two-week trial from November 21.

Namouz, of no fixed address, is accused of eight separate incidents of funding terrorism, in November and December 2020, January 2021, twice in March and April 2021, and once on May 2021. He is accused of having videos “likely to be of use to a person committing or preparing acts of terrorist on May 25, 2021.

Because this is sub judice I dare not  link other news reports concerning a man with the same name, of the same age, and same occupation in the London Evening Standard from 7 years ago.