This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

A man accused of plotting to assassinate Theresa May in an attack on Downing Street is to face trial next year.

Naa’imur Zakariyah Rahman, 20, was charged with preparing acts of terrorism after his arrest on 28 November.

According to the charge, he conducted reconnaissance of the target location, recorded a pledge of allegiance, purchased a rucksack, delivered a rucksack and bag to be fitted with an improvised explosive device, and collected it “with a view to committing attacks against persons in the UK”.

The defendant, of Finchley, north London, also allegedly assisted Mohammad Aqib Imran, 21, in his terrorism plans. On or before 28 November, Rahman recorded and sent to Imran “a sponsorship video in order for him to be accepted by Islamic State”, the charge says.

Imran, of Sparkbrook, Birmingham, allegedly tried to join Isis, and is charged with preparing acts of terrorism. His charge alleges he saved money to pay for a fake passport and travel to Libya, and sent two photos of his passport data to secure a fake passport.

He made online research into travel options and terrorist publications and had an Isis-sponsorship video sent by Rahman, the charge says. He also downloaded How to Survive in the West – a Mujahid’s Guide 2015, it is claimed.

Rahman and Imran were arrested in raids by the Metropolitan police’s counter-terrorism command in London and Birmingham.

The pair appeared on Wednesday before Mr Justice Haddon-Cave via video link from Belmarsh prison for a hearing. Haddon-Cave set a trial before him at the Old Bailey in London from 18 June and remanded the defendants into custody.