Jordan court sentences four individuals up to 20 years for foiled attack plot

Jordan’s State Security Court has sentenced four suspects to 20 years in prison for possessing explosive materials, weapons, and ammunition in a plot aimed at destabilizing national security, state media reported.

The court issued its verdict after convicting the defendants on charges of possessing explosive materials, weapons, and ammunition with the intent to use them unlawfully and carry out actions that would disrupt public order and endanger the safety and security of the community, in violation of anti-terrorism laws.

The court concluded that the facts established in the case showed the criminals’ possession of explosive materials with the intention to use them for illegal activities, which would inevitably disrupt public order and pose a threat to the safety and security of Jordanian society. The materials were transported into the country and hidden in multiple locations to avoid detection.

The court also noted that the defendants were arrested, and the explosives, weapons, and ammunition were seized following security measures based on intelligence received about the criminals' activities.

The seized explosive materials were confirmed to be highly dangerous explosives, classified as military-grade and capable of causing significant destruction and harm to life and property, posing a severe threat to public safety.

Given the seriousness of the actions and their potential to undermine security and stability, the court decided to impose the maximum penalty to deter both the defendants and others from committing such heinous acts. This decision aims to uphold public and private deterrence and safeguard the security of Jordanian society.

This case is part of a broader plot announced by the government, which began in 2021. The suspects were arrested in mid-2023, and the case was referred to the public prosecution, which transferred it to the State Security Court. The trial has been ongoing for several months, while other related cases remain under judicial review.