Ben Mitchell

Mohamed Mohamoud, a 22-year-old Somali-born man living in Bristol, was convicted at Winchester Crown Court of preparing acts of terrorism after travelling to Somalia in January 2025 to join Islamic State and seek martyrdom. Prosecutors said he used an AI chatbot linked to Islamic State recruitment efforts, attempted to contact members in Puntland, and intended to remain with the group despite holding a return ticket. Unable to reach Islamic State because of counter-terrorism operations, he returned to the UK and continued communicating with recruiters. Mohamoud denied preparing terrorist acts but admitted trying to join the organization, saying that extreme online videos contributed to his radicalization.

Firefighters expect to spend several more days tackling a New Forest blaze that began when a van caught fire near the A31 and spread into protected heathland. Hot, dry weather, difficult terrain, shifting winds and shortages in water supply are complicating the response, while some firefighters are reportedly working exhausting long shifts. The A31 remains closed because the fire damaged its road surface, barriers and fencing, and repairs cannot begin until the fire is under control. Authorities are assessing potential harm to rare wildlife, while Bournemouth Water has asked residents to reduce consumption amid exceptionally high demand.

Benjamin Lewis, a 48-year-old man from Totton, Southampton, was detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act after pleading guilty to five counts of religiously aggravated harassment and two thefts of lambs. Between February and August 2025, he stole and killed lambs and dumped animal remains, inverted crosses and other occult objects at four New Forest churches and a mental health facility, causing significant distress among congregations, children and farm owners. The court heard that Lewis has severe autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mixed personality disorder and a mild learning disability, alongside fantastical thinking and limited insight. The judge said the offences would otherwise have justified substantial prison sentences.