Direct Indictments Filed in Terrorism Case

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 16, 2012) - The Public Prosecution Service of Canada announced today the filing of direct indictments and new charges in the terrorism-related case named Project Samossa.

The indictments were filed May 14, 2012 in Ontario Superior Court. The first indictment includes a new charge of participation in the activities of a terrorist group contrary to s. 83.18 of the Criminal Code against Hiva Mohammad Alizadeh, 32, and Misbahuddin Ahmed, 28. They are also charged with one count each of conspiring to facilitate terrorist activity and one count of making or having explosives in their possession.

In the second indictment, Khurram Syed Sher, 30, is charged with one count of conspiring to facilitate terrorist activity.

All three accused were arrested in 2010.

By preferring an indictment, the Crown is sending these matters directly to trial before a preliminary inquiry is held. The decision is in accordance with s. 577 of the Criminal Code and policy in the Federal Prosecution Service Deskbook, a public document.

The Public Prosecution Service of Canada is responsible for prosecuting offences under federal jurisdiction in a manner that is free of any improper influence and that respects the public interest. The PPSC is also responsible for providing prosecution-related advice to law enforcement agencies across Canada.

Backgrounder on Direct Indictments