Terror suspects allegedly planned refuge

LONDON, June 13 (UPI) -- British prosecutors say two suspected terrorists discussed creating an Islamist refuge in a remote part of Scotland.

Aabid Khan and Sultan Muhammad, both residents of Bradford in West Yorkshire, are on trial with two other men in London, The Scotsman reported.

In his opening statement, prosecutor Simon Denison said Khan and Muhammad e-mailed each other about the refuge. Muhammad allegedly began the discussion by saying people he had talked to were dubious about Scotland.

"A group of Muslims can go to a remote place and set up a mini Sharia state and they can rule according to Sharia law, like this and stay there, building them up and their children up, preparing for fitness, and then launching jihad once they strengthen themselves," Khan allegedly replied.

Khan was arrested in 2005 as he returned to Britain from Pakistan. Muhammad was picked up in London a few days later after allegedly fleeing Bradford when he learned of his friend's arrest.