A 29-year-old dentist has been jailed for four-and-a-half years after admitting he tried to fly to Pakistan to carry out acts of terrorism.

Sohail Qureshi, 29, became the first person to be convicted under a new law covering those found to be preparing for terrorism.

Qureshi was arrested at Heathrow Airport in October 2006 carrying thousands of pounds in cash, a night sight, medical supplies and computer material for terrorist purposes.

Jonathan Sharp, prosecuting, told the Old Bailey he planned to fly to Islamabad for a "two- to three-week operation" either in Pakistan, Afghanistan or Waziristan.

The court heard that police intercepted internet traffic in which Qureshi wrote: "Pray that I kill many, brother. Revenge, revenge, revenge."

Mr Sharp said: "Sohail Qureshi is a dedicated supporter of Islamist extremism."

Qureshi pleaded guilty to preparing for terrorism under Section 5 of the Terrorism Act 2006, the first time anyone has been convicted under this section.

He also pleaded guilty to possessing an article for a terrorist purpose and possessing a record likely to be useful in terrorism.

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