Two friends are currently on trial, accused of playing pivotal roles in the escape of former soldier Daniel Khalife from HMP Wandsworth in September 2023. Adeel Khan, 32, and Imran Chowdhury, 26, both from East London, have pleaded not guilty to charges of assisting Khalife, who absconded by allegedly tying himself to the underside of a delivery lorry.
Prosecutor Tom Williams informed Snaresbrook Crown Court that the prosecution's case centres on the close friendship between Khan and Chowdhury. It is alleged that Khan, while also incarcerated at Wandsworth, acted as an 'instructor', providing directions to Khalife. Meanwhile, Chowdhury is accused of being the 'man on the ground', responsible for supplying Khalife with money shortly after his escape.
Khalife, who was subsequently apprehended following a widespread manhunt, was sentenced in 2024 to 14 years and three months in prison for spying for Iran. He had previously admitted to the escape itself. The court heard that Khan was first linked to Khalife through a red diary found on Khalife's person upon his re-arrest. This diary reportedly contained Khan's name, an illegal prison phone number, his personal mobile number, and his Snapchat account details.
Further evidence presented included allegations that Khalife was carrying approximately £200 in £20 notes when he was caught. The prosecution contends this money originated from a £400 withdrawal made by Chowdhury from a cash machine in Richmond on the day of the escape. Chowdhury allegedly received £120 for his involvement. The court was also told that Khan and Khalife had worked together regularly in the prison kitchen, suggesting a close acquaintance.
In the hours and days immediately following his escape, Khalife reportedly made several calls to Khan using phones borrowed from members of the public. The prosecution highlighted a message Khan sent to his then-girlfriend, Nazish Mahmood, containing Chowdhury's bank details and instructing her to transfer £120. CCTV footage was also shown in court, reportedly depicting Chowdhury and Khalife meeting in Richmond the evening of the escape, walking together before entering an alleyway.