Paul Martin appeared in court at The Old Bailey in London, charged with terror offences related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Martin was accused of encouraging terrorism, possessing articles for the purposes of terrorism, and possessing a stun gun, a dagger, a knife, two crossbows and crossbow bolts. The court found this gave rise to a reasonable suspicion that he intended to use them for the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorist acts.
Martin was also charged over social media posts about starting an armed uprising against the UK government during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Martin posted messages in a Telegram group called “The Resistance UK” under the username “The Perpetual Truth”. Martin was conditionally released to next appear in court for the preliminary hearing on 4 July 2025. The Crown Court case has been set for 13 October 2025.
The case demonstrates that it remains likely that certain individuals would maintain the intent to target sites and individuals associated with the UK government’s NHS as a result of COVID-19-related online misinformation.
What do you need to do?
- Ensure staff are aware of how to report security incidents including suspicious behaviour
- Contact your Security Advisory Consultant to carry out a site security review of your premises or any site used for vaccinations
- Contact Police 999 if an immediate threat
- Counter Terror hotline 0800 789 321
Source: February Monthly Terrorism Update – Pool Reinsurance
Importance: For info
For further assistance and support, please contact:
Jonathan Gladwin, Security Advisory Director; or your nominated Anti-Crime Specialist.