Birmingham shopkeeper who posted abuse about Shia Muslims online claims ‘I am not pro-ISIS’

A shopkeeper from Birmingham accused of tweeting in support of Daesh (ISIS) has told a court the fundamentalists would strongly disapprove of him selling alcohol.

A shopkeeper from Birmingham accused of tweeting in support of Daesh (ISIS) has told a court the fundamentalists would strongly disapprove of him selling alcohol.

Zahir Khan, 40, of Salisbury Street, Sunderland, has admitted a series of offences after posting abuse about Shia Muslims and encouraging acts of terror.

The father of one, originally from Birmingham, has admitted the offences, some of which were religiously aggravated, on the basis it was reckless.

But the prosecution did not accept that basis and a hearing of the facts is being held at Newcastle Crown Court.

Jonathan Sandiford, prosecuting, said: “The prosecution say that the defendant intended to encourage the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

“He maintains for his part he was merely reckless.”

Khan shared messages on social media saying “death to shia Muslims … death to every single one of them”, describing them with the worst words and calling for them to be burnt alive.

He has also admitted tweeting on January 2, 2017: “Welcome to the year of fear, ISIS will make this one the deadliest ever. Mr Kuffar (non-believers) prepare for real war.”