RADICAL preacher Abu Qatada has lost his latest bid for freedom.

Two judges at the High Court in London rejected his challenge against his detention by Home Secretary Theresa May.

The Special Immigration Appeals Commission ruled two months ago that the detention of Qatada, who is fighting deportation to Jordan, was lawful.

Leaving him free during heightened security for the 2012 Olympics would be "exceptionally problematic", a judge said.

Lord Justice Hughes, sitting with Mr Justice Silber, said the court was "quite satisfied" Qatada's judicial review application should be dismissed.

After the decision was announced, his lawyers indicated they would consider going to the Court of Appeal after reviewing the court's reasons.

Qatada, referred to in court as Omar Mahmoud Othman, was seeking bail as he fights deportation.

After yesterday's ruling, a Home Office spokeswoman said: "Qatada is a dangerous man and we are pleased the High Court has agreed he should remain behind bars. The intention is to remove him as quickly as possible."