Turkish national Hakan Barac, aged 28, has been sentenced to 45 months in jail for his involvement in promoting the terrorist group ISIS. Barac, an Islamic extremist, arrived in the UK illegally on a small boat and was in the process of seeking asylum when he was apprehended by counter-terrorism authorities last year. According to reports from Bristol Crown Court, Barac was found to have been sharing videos on social media platforms such as Instagram and Telegram, glorifying ISIS, as well as notorious terrorists like Osama bin Laden and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.
The prosecutor, Ben Lloyd, revealed that Barac’s online activities included posting content that depicted jihadists preparing for martyrdom and featured recruitment material from individuals such as Mohammed Khalifa. It was emphasised that Barac’s postings were done recklessly, with a clear risk of encouraging terrorist activities, despite claims that his intent was not malicious. Additionally, investigators discovered further material online that showcased Barac’s support for ISIS and glorification of violent extremism, indicating his alignment with extremist ideologies.
Moreover, it was disclosed that Barac had entered the UK unlawfully in April 2023, and while he was awaiting asylum consideration, he engaged in disseminating terrorist propaganda and expressing support for a proscribed organisation. In his defence, Tim Forte KC argued that Barac’s actions were not aimed at assisting or encouraging terrorism and that the audience for his posts was relatively small. However, Judge Martin Picton condemned Barac’s behaviour, highlighting the potential harm his actions could cause in inciting others to commit acts of violence.
The judge underscored that sharing extremist material on social media poses a significant risk of encouraging terrorism and condemned Barac’s dissemination of such content, considering the impact it could have on vulnerable individuals. Despite Barac’s plea for asylum, Judge Picton expressed his shock and disapproval at Barac’s contradictory behaviour of promoting violent ideologies while seeking refuge in the UK. Consequently, Barac was handed a 45-month sentence and faces deportation following the completion of his jail term.
In light of these events, the case serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of online radicalisation and the potential consequences it can have on national security. It also highlights the crucial role that law enforcement agencies play in monitoring and apprehending individuals who engage in activities that threaten the safety and well-being of society. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, there is a growing need for robust measures to counter online extremism and safeguard communities against the influence of terrorist organisations.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in combatting terrorism in an increasingly digital age. The sentencing of Hakan Barac sends a clear message that promoting extremist ideologies and terrorist activities will not be tolerated, and those found guilty will face severe consequences. As the UK continues its efforts to counter terrorism and extremism, it is imperative for individuals to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or concerning behaviour that could pose a threat to national security.