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How could this ranting crank ‘brainwash’ anybody?

Read spiked editor Mick Hume in The Times (London) on Abu Hamza.

Mick Hume

Mick Hume
Columnist

Topics Politics

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Some people seem to be mixing up Abu Hamza with Ali Bongo, the children’s conjuror, such are the near-magical powers to entrance youngsters that they now attribute to the convicted Islamic preacher. Since Abu Hamza was jailed for inciting murder and racial hatred, it has been reported that he recruited many young Muslims to fight a jihad abroad, and influenced the July 7 London suicide bombers. These claims raise uncomfortable questions that few seem keen to answer. How could such a raving loon exercise such powerful influence over normal, British-born men?

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