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A Derbyshire man whose family had raised concerns about his welfare has been jailed after pleading guilty to preparing for acts of terrorism.

Mudassir Hussain has today, Tuesday, July 11, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court where he admitted preparing for acts of terrorism.

The 31-year-old has been sentenced to five years and three months in prison and will then serve one year on licence.

He was arrested at Heathrow Airport in January, 2017, following an investigation by the North East Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) supported by Derbyshire police.

Hussain, of Gladstone Street, Derby, left the UK on January 6, this year, travelling to Turkey.

Officers were alerted after Hussain’s family raised concerns about his welfare. The Turkish Authorities deported him back to the UK where he was arrested and subsequently charged.

Detective Chief Superintendent Clive Wain, head of the North East CTU, said: “By pleading guilty Hussain has admitted his intention was to take part in the conflict in Syria and was aware that he may be killed.

“We were not aware of Hussain’s intentions prior to him travelling and therefore by the time we intervened he had already committed an offence. However by reporting their concerns Hussain’s family may well have saved lives, including his own.

“We would continue to appeal to anyone who may have knowledge of people with similar intentions to help us prevent tragedies, by contacting police or our partner agencies as a matter of urgency. The earlier we can intervene to prevent them from engaging in terrorist activity, or to safeguard vulnerable people, the better.

“If you know someone who is potentially vulnerable to being drawn into terrorist-related activity, including travelling abroad to conflict zones, contact your local police for advice and support on 101.”

Superintendent Tracy Harrison, of Derbyshire police, said: “I appreciate that news of this case may cause concerns among residents but it shows that we have a good relationship with our communities and between our communities.

“I am reassured that people in Derby have the confidence to come forward and talk to us about concerns or suspicions they have.

“We are here to support anyone who wants to speak to us about worries they may have about a friend, neighbour or family member.”

Further information is available on the national Prevent Tragedies website at www.preventtragedies.co.uk