A man, Fayaz Khan, 26, has been sentenced to five years in jail for making threats to kill Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK. Khan, originally from Afghanistan and a small boat migrant, posted a TikTok video last year that prosecutors described as “sinister and menacing.”
During the sentencing hearing at Southwark Crown Court, it was revealed that Khan had used a false name with British authorities due to his criminal history in Sweden, where he is known as Fayaz Husseini, aged 31. The court was informed that Khan had a record of 17 convictions on 12 separate occasions, mostly for minor offenses, some related to drugs.
Prosecutor Peter Ratliff highlighted that Khan had a violent past, including a prior conviction for threatening a public servant. Following the sentencing, Nigel Farage commented that while the five-year jail term was the maximum possible, he expressed concerns about Khan potentially being released in 18 months and living freely in the UK.
Khan, after being jailed, protested in court claiming that Farage was using him for political gain, shouting that he did not intend to harm the politician and wanted to return to Afghanistan where his family resides. The sentencing judge, Mrs. Justice Steyn, agreed with Farage that the threats made by Khan were alarming and posed a serious risk.
Nicholas Coates of the Crown Prosecution Service emphasized the seriousness of Khan’s actions, stating that politicians should be able to carry out their duties without fear of harm. Khan’s defense lawyer argued that the TikTok video was meant to be comedic rather than a genuine threat.
The court also heard that Khan had a fascination with firearms, as evidenced by his behavior and tattoos. Khan’s video response to Farage’s remarks on immigration led to concerns about his intentions, with gestures and statements indicating a potential threat.
In a police interview, Khan downplayed the video as part of his character and denied any intent to harm Farage. Detectives revealed that Khan had livestreamed his journey across the English Channel and was arrested upon arrival in the UK.
