Known only as "U," an Algerian man accused of plotting to blow up Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) was denied bail by a British court last week. "U" has been held, somewhat mysteriously, for six years. Little is known about "U." The Associated Press reports that, according to British officials, he arrived in England in 1994 after having held a senior position at a mujahideen training camp in Afghanistan. "U" allegedly set up and ran a terror cell there "which was named after an alias he used at the time."  

Algeria wants "U" back, but the UK has been unable to deport him; his lawyer says he'll be tortured if he's returned home to North Africa. The US wants to try "U" for his role in the LAX plot, but its extradition time frame to do so has lapsed. "U" has not been formally charged in England with a crime and he has not had a trial. 

The judge presiding over the case said, "He [i.e. "U"] had not indicated to any extent whatever that he has disavowed his former beliefs or associates." His lawyer, however, sees things differently and argued that "U" should be released on the grounds that he's "damaged goods." More from the AP:

The suspect's lawyer, Hugh Southey, argued his 44-year-old client had become "damaged goods" in the eyes of any terrorist because he was bound to be kept under surveillance if released.

"He is somebody who an intelligent person who wanted to carry out illicit or illegal acts would steer well clear of," he told the court.

 Tell that to Marianne Pearl.

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