In a case that highlights the intersection of conspiracy theories and social media, Patrick Ruane, a 55-year-old audio producer, is currently standing trial at the Old Bailey in London. The court is examining allegations that Ruane used the encrypted messaging app Telegram to encourage terrorism and violence against individuals involved in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout.
Prosecutors allege that throughout 2021, Ruane posted thousands of messages on Telegram, a platform founded in 2013 that has gained popularity for its encryption features. The defendant reportedly shared content in two chat groups with a combined membership of 26,000 users, potentially reaching a significant audience.
According to the prosecution, Ruane's posts allegedly called for extreme measures against vaccine manufacturers, administrators, and politicians. Julia Faure Walker, representing the Crown, stated that the defendant advocated for an "IRA playbook" to be implemented following lockdown extensions. The Irish Republican Army, a paramilitary organization known for its violent campaigns, was invoked in these alleged messages.
The court heard that Ruane allegedly encouraged the use of "kill squads" and suggested burning down pharmaceutical companies' facilities. He is also accused of promoting the use of Semtex, a plastic explosive commonly used in commercial and military applications, to target 5G towers. The rollout of 5G technology, which began wide deployment in 2019, has been the subject of various conspiracy theories.
"Whatever your personal viewpoint, there is nothing illegal in merely holding views or campaigning to bring about change. What brings Mr Ruane here, facing terrorism charges, is that rather than restricting himself to advocating change through argument or protest for example, he repeatedly referred to serious violence, even referring to the use of Semtex, as well as serious criminal damage and disruption of electronic communication systems."
The prosecution argues that Ruane's actions were driven by his opposition to the UK government's Covid-19 measures, including lockdowns and the vaccination program which began in December 2020. They suggest that his posts could have influenced susceptible individuals among his audience.
In November 2021, approximately three years ago, police seized Ruane's electronic devices from his residence in Paddington, West London. During a subsequent interview, the defendant reportedly attributed his behavior to alcohol consumption following the loss of his business during lockdown.
Ruane faces two counts of encouraging terrorism and one charge of collecting information likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism. These charges fall under the Terrorism Act 2000 and subsequent legislation.
As the trial continues, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the spread of conspiracy theories through encrypted messaging platforms and the potential real-world consequences of online extremism.