Former ISIS operative Zana Abdul Rahman Rahim smuggles into UK despite ban

Zana Abdul Rahman Rahim, a senior member of the Rawti Shax network founded by Najmadin Faraj Ahmad (known as Mullah Krekar), was convicted in Italy for plotting attacks on Western targets and seeking weapons for Europe. After serving a seven-and-a-half-year prison term, he attempted to re-enter the United Kingdom, arriving in Dover in June via a lorry from France. West Yorkshire Police halted his car after noticing a broken light, and a subsequent background check uncovered his prior conviction and a standing exclusion order.

Rahim admitted the unlawful entry and is due for sentencing on October 30, with the Home Office likely to seek his removal. The case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing exclusion orders against individuals linked to extremist groups.