Wakefield, England — Three men linked to an extremist group have been sentenced for plotting a violent terrorist attack targeting minority communities in West Yorkshire. The case highlights ongoing concerns over rising radicalization within far-right circles in the UK.
Brogan Stewart, 25, Marco Pitzettu, 26, and Christopher Ringrose, 35, were convicted of planning acts of terrorism, along with various firearms offenses. Their arrests came in February 2024, following an extensive investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing North East that revealed the trio’s intentions to carry out a violent assault inspired by their extremist beliefs.
Authorities began monitoring the men after they engaged in online discussions promoting hatred and violence. The group’s activities included sharing racial slurs, showing admiration for notorious mass murderers, and endorsing violent actions against groups they labeled as enemies. Court documents revealed that Stewart was the leader, establishing rules for the group and designating roles for his accomplices, who took on the responsibilities of procuring weapons.
As law enforcement investigated their activities, they found that the men were preparing for a “race war.” Investigators seized over 200 weapons from their homes, including machetes, knives, crossbows, and military gear such as body armor and riot shields, indicating a serious threat to community safety.
In court, Stewart was sentenced to 11 years, while Pitzettu received an eight-year term, and Ringrose was given a ten-year sentence. All three men will serve time on extended licenses and be subject to ongoing monitoring for several years as part of strict anti-terrorism measures.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley emphasized the severity of the group’s intentions, stating, “These men participated in a vile ideology that promotes violence and hatred.” He thanked the various law enforcement agencies involved in the complex investigation, underscoring the importance of community vigilance in combating such ideologies.
Bethan David, from the Crown Prosecution Service’s Counter Terrorism Division, remarked on the case’s implications. She noted that the men were motivated by extremist ideologies that inspired plans against places of worship, including synagogues and mosques. The evidence presented included chilling communications from private online channels where the men discussed their plans, further underscoring the threat they posed.
David also pointed out the seriousness of Ringrose’s attempts to construct a 3D-printed firearm. Had he completed it, the weapon could have been used to inflict harm on innocent individuals, amplifying the potential consequences of their conspiracy.
The investigation has drawn renewed attention to the necessity for community cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious activities. “Counter Terrorism Policing works tirelessly to prevent such threats,” Dunkerley added. “We rely on the public’s support and encourage anyone who notices anything unusual to report it.”
With extremist groups continuing to pose a challenge to community safety, law enforcement remains committed to disrupting such plots before they escalate into acts of violence. The sentences serve as a reminder of the serious legal consequences facing those who support or engage in terrorism.