A 25-year-old man who was arrested in Letchworth last year has been convicted for his part in a terrorist plot.

Junead Khan – who was working as a driver for pharmaceutical firm Alliance Healthcare when he was arrested at its depot in July – was found guilty of engaging in the preparation of terrorist acts at Kingston Crown Court today.

He and his 23-year-old uncle Shazib Khan – both from Luton – were also found guilty of engaging in terrorist acts by making plans to travel to Syria and fight alongside Daesh.

The court heard how officers from Bedfordshire Police visited Junead Khan four times in 2014, to try and encourage him away from extremism following referrals from statutory agencies.

But Khan refused help and instead became more embroiled in extremism, liaising with someone police believe to be a fighter for Daesh, and plotting acts of terrorism.

Subsequently, following a joint MI5 and Met Counter Terrorism Command investigation, detectives arrested the delivery driver and his uncle for their terrorist plans.

Upon arresting the pair, detectives searched a number of addresses and vehicles linked to the pair and seized phones, laptops and numerous documents.

The evidence they collated painted an alarming picture of the Khan’s intention to fight alongside Daesh and, in Junead Khan’s case, to attack US soldiers based in the UK.

Specifically, he intended to stage a road accident to draw soldiers out of their car, before attacking them with knives and potentially detonating a homemade bomb.

Commander Dean Haydon, who head of SO15, said: “Junead Khan faces years in prison for the atrocious acts he planned.

“Officers offered to help him follow a positive life path. His refusal spiralled into extremism and plotting acts of terrorism.

“Counter terrorism officers will take every step to stop and prosecute those who plan such acts of terrorism in the UK to keep the public safe.

“I urge anyone who is drawn to a life of extremism or is concerned about a loved one to seek advice and help by visiting the Prevent Tragedies website or contacting specially trained officers by calling 101.”

The men are scheduled to be sentenced on May 13 at Kingston Crown Court.