Man, 29, ‘armed with two knives attempted to stab woman he believed worked for GCHQ to death outside leisure centre’
A MAN armed with two knives attempted to stab a woman to death because he believed she worked at GCHQ, a court heard today.
The victim was sitting in her car in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, on March 9 when the horror unfolded.
She was rushed to hospital with serious injuries and remains in a stable condition.
Joshua Bowles was charged last night by detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE).
The 29-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court today where he spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.
Police were scrambled to Tommy Taylor’s Lane, which is just a few miles from GCHQ's headquarters, at around 9.15pm.
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Officers believe Bowles travelled to the leisure centre with two knives and waited outside for the woman, who is referred to in charges by the code number "99230".
Prosecutor Kathryn Selby said Bowles allegedly targeted her because "he believed she worked for GCHQ and holds views on the work they conduct" and because in his mind she "represents the state".
He is charged with the attempted murder of 99230 and assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Alex Fuentes on the same day.
Bowles was remanded Bowles in custody ahead of his next appearance at the Old Bailey on March 31.
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CTPSE confirmed it was leading the investigation “due to some specific detail of this incident”.
GCHQ is the UK's intelligence, security and cyber agency.
Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, head of the unit, said: "We would encourage people not to speculate on the specific circumstances surrounding this incident.
"We believe this was an isolated incident and there is no information to suggest any wider threat to the local community.
"We must now let the judicial process take place."