In 2015, Shamima Begum travelled to Syria to join the Islamic extremist group. Since the defeat of the terrorist organisation, the Daesh* bride pleaded to be allowed home but had her British citizenship removed on the basis of “national security”.
Former Daesh bride Shamima Begum is “highly likely” to face arrest upon her return to the United Kingdom, the former head of the Metropolitan police anti-terrorism unit said on Friday.
Speaking to LBC, Richard Walton, who led Scotland Yard's counter-terrorism division from 2011 to 2016, said that the 20-year old, who fled the UK to join Daesh, would likely be arrested to stand in a later terror trial if she decides to return to her country of birth.
Mr Walton also said he believes the appeal court decision on Thursday to allow her to return to the country was a “mistake” and “undermines” the ability of government officials to maintain public safety.
“Frankly it is alarming to see the court of appeal taking over the Home Secretary's responsibility of who should be allowed in the UK”, he said . “It has opened the door for her return to Britain and has undermined a statutory power of parliament”.
Mr Walton also predicted that the decision would be overturned either by the Supreme Court or legislation in parliament.
The government said following the ruling that it was “bitterly disappointed” with the move.
A spokesperson for Number 10 said that the government's priority is “maintaining our…
