Mohammed Akhtar, 24, from Birmingham, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after posting a picture on Snapchat holding a samurai sword with the caption “where’s Tommy Robinson?” He also sent threatening messages in various WhatsApp groups, including one that said, “need to smash up this white lot.” The post was made during a period of civil unrest sparked by false information about a child murder suspect, causing tensions to rise.
Akhtar, who admitted to sending threatening communications, claimed the sword was merely a “silly mistake” and a form of “showing off.” The sword, a blunt ornament gifted to his parents 20 years ago, was not intended to cause harm, according to Akhtar. However, Judge Paul Farrer KC emphasized the seriousness of the offence, highlighting the need for deterrence given the context of rising violence and disorder in the country at the time.
Despite his claims of good character and positive prospects, Akhtar was sentenced for his reckless actions, with the judge noting the broader impact of his behavior on societal tensions. The samurai sword was later recovered from Akhtar’s home following a police search.