A Nigerian Master’s student in Scotland’s Dundee University, Somtochukwu Okwuoha, faces jail and deportation after a jury found him guilty of making terrorist threats against the school.
According to report, Okwuoha asserted that he had recruited ISIS to assist in bombing the university and informed staff of his intention to launch a chemical attack on the city.
The student, specializing in international energy studies, has been found guilty of seven charges and is currently held in custody.
The 26-year-old is set to be sentenced next month.
Sheriff William Wood will also weigh the Crown’s request for an order to deport Okwuoha to Nigeria.
During the trial, it was revealed that Okwuoha informed university staff of his intent to carry out mass murder on the Dundee University campus.
Witnesses recounted Okwuoha’s claims of a military background, bomb-making skills, and the capability to unleash a deadly virus on the city.
Keith Mackle, 58, the retired director of student services, testified at Perth Sheriff Court, stating he became aware of “serious concerns” in the autumn of 2021.
He said staff members received emails making terrorist threats.
One said: “Expect a massive bomb explosion at the University of Dundee. I have contacted Isis terrorists to plant bombs on campus.
“I can assure you staff and students will die in great numbers. 9/11 will be a joke compared to what will happen.
“Blood will spill and flesh will be scattered.”
Accommodation officer Shane Taylor informed the court that Okwuoha accused him of racism and expressed intentions to retaliate by targeting Scottish people.
Okwuoha, currently incarcerated in Perth, was convicted of threatening to murder university staff and committing terrorist acts from December 2021 to June 2022.
The charges include threatening mass murder, employing biological weapons, disclosing staff information to international authorities, and asserting the placement of explosive devices. Additionally, he was found guilty of threatening to behead police officers and detonate bombs planted at Dundee University.