Two teenagers from Cardiff, Rhys Edwards and Talan Vincent, both aged 18, have been charged with preparation of acts of terrorism against Muslim and Jewish targets.
The charges cover the period between 1 October and 16 November 2025. Prosecutors allege that during this time the pair researched and visited attack locations and made arrangements to obtain firearms.
Alleged targets
The alleged targets were the Madina Mosque and a Jewish synagogue and cemetery in Cardiff.
Both defendants were arrested last month and appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court shortly afterwards, where they were remanded in custody. They were later held at HMP Thameside.
Yesterday they appeared via video link at the Old Bailey for a preliminary hearing where both entered pleas of not guilty.
Automatic weapons
It was claimed in court that they had researched how to obtain an automatic AR-15 firearm and sought advanced 3D-printing equipment that might be used to manufacture gun components.
The court heard that the pair planned to reverse a van fitted with false number plates up to the entrance of Madina Mosque, blocking exits so that people could not escape, before opening fire with automatic weapons.
They are also accused of discussing how they would flee the scene afterwards.
It is also alleged that they discussed loading a van with 1,000kg of ammonium nitrate explosive and had explored how such a quantity could be acquired without attracting suspicion.
Potential targets
The two had communicated via the messaging app Discord. Prosecutors allege that Edwards expressed his intention to kill Jewish people and Muslims and believed in the “superiority of his own race”.
Vincent is accused of researching software security in relation to the alleged attacks, while both defendants are said to have obtained aerial images of potential targets, including a Jewish cemetery near Roath Park and a synagogue in the city.
The judge was told both defendants would enter not guilty pleas because there was no genuine intention to carry out terrorist acts.
A representative for Edwards said some of his comments on Discord amounted to “rage-baiting” rather than serious plans.
A provisional trial date has been scheduled for February 2027.
