Wandsworth Prison Escape: Former Soldier Daniel Khalife Jailed for 14 Years
Daniel Khalife, a former soldier, has been sentenced to 14 years for espionage and escaping from Wandsworth prison.
Wandsworth, London, UK, Daniel Khalife, Espionage, Prison Escape
Wandsworth: A former British soldier, Daniel Khalife, has been sentenced to 14 years. He escaped from Wandsworth prison while awaiting trial for spying.
Khalife, 23, made headlines when he clung to a food delivery lorry to escape. This happened on September 6 last year, sparking a nationwide manhunt.
He managed to evade capture for three days. He was finally caught riding a stolen bike in Northolt, about 14 miles away.
Before his escape, Khalife was accused of passing secret information to Iranian spies. He had been in the Army since he was 16 and was held on remand.
Khalife claimed he wanted to be a “double agent” and had been in contact with Iranian agents for over two years. He even told British security services about his plans.
He was found guilty of charges under the Official Secrets Act and the Terrorism Act. He admitted to escaping custody during his trial.
The court learned that Khalife used old spy tactics, like leaving materials in public places for cash. He even traveled to the Iranian embassy while in the military.
During his time on the run, he bought clothes and used a pub phone to contact his handlers. He was in touch with them while evading capture.
When arrested, Khalife told police he was sore from hiding under the lorry. He later admitted it was a foolish idea to be in prison.