A 60-year-old man has denied charges of trying to incite an armed uprising against the UK Government during the Covid-19 pandemic whilst allegedly stockpiling weapons including crossbows and a dagger.
Paul Martin appeared at the Old Bailey charged with encouraging terrorism, possessing articles for the purposes of terrorism, and possessing a stun gun.
Thousands of alleged messages posted
Prosecutors allege that Martin, from Suffolk Road in Croydon, posted approximately 16,000 messages in a Telegram group called "The Resistance UK" using the username "Perpetual Truth".
Between December 15, 2020, and September 29, 2021, he allegedly discussed gathering a militia and weapons whilst planning attacks on Government members and police officers.
Arsenal of weapons discovered
During the same period, Martin allegedly possessed a dagger, knife, two crossbows and arrows which prosecutors claim gave rise to reasonable suspicion he intended to use them for terrorist acts.
He also faces charges for possessing a stun gun on September 28, 2021, which is classified as a weapon that discharges noxious liquid, gas or other substances.
Court appearance details
The bearded and bespectacled defendant, who wore his long grey hair in a ponytail, confirmed his identity during the hearing before Judge Richard Marks KC.
Martin pleaded not guilty to all three charges against him and remains on conditional bail ahead of his trial.
Trial date set
The case is scheduled for a two-week trial beginning October 13 at the Old Bailey, where Martin will face the full terrorism charges.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
