08/02/2008

Abu Hamza Extradition Approved

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith has approved the extradition of radical Muslim cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri to the US to face terror charges.

The 49-year-old Egyptian-born preacher, who is currently serving a seven-year sentence for soliciting murder and inciting racial hatred in the UK, is wanted on several charges in the US.

Hamza has 14 days to appeal the decision and his lawyer, Muddassar Arani, has confirmed that his client will appeal the decision.

Mr Arani told reporters that there were "grave concerns" about what would happen if the extradition went ahead.

He said: "The Americans have said that he will not face the death penalty or be sent to the Guantanamo Bay detention camp - but how can we be sure?"

Among the allegations made against Hamza by the US government, are claims that he helped to fund terrorism, helped to establish a "training camp" for terrorists in the US state of Oregon and was involved in a plot to kidnap Western tourists in Yemen.

Hamza faces a potential jail sentence of 100 years if he is found guilty at a trial in the US.

If Hamza's appeal fails, he will be extradited to the US within 28 days.

A London court approved his extradition last November, but final approval of the decision had to be made by the home secretary.

(KMcA)




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