Who is the Irish jihadist jailed for attack on gardaí in Dublin?

In July 2025, Abdullah Khan, a self-described jihadist, carried out two attacks in Dublin, both of which were captured on camera.

A follower of radical Islamic terrorist group Isis, Khan attacked two gardaí on patrol on Capel Street because, it is believed, they were a symbol of the State.

Taken into custody, he also confessed to an arson attack some days earlier on Conor McGregor’s Black Forge pub in Crumlin.

He plead guilty to both offences and this week was before the Special Criminal Court for sentencing. He was jailed for 6½ years.

What do we know about Abdullah Khan? How was the Irish-born young man radicalised? Isis militants often operate within wider networks or cells. Do gardaí believe Khan acted alone? What was the reaction to the sentence?

Courts reporter Eoin Reynolds, who was present for Khan’s sentencing, outlines the case.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.