In a shocking revelation, two Tucson residents, Ahmed Mahad Mohamed, 26, and Abdi Yemeni Hussein, 25, have pleaded guilty to conspiring to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). The duo, both Somali citizens, were living in Tucson at the time of their arrest and admitted their intentions to travel to the Middle East to fight for the notorious terrorist organization. Their sentencing is set for October 11, 2024, before United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps.
The conspiracy began in late 2018 when Mohamed actively sought out ISIS supporters online, expressing his desire to travel to ISIS-controlled regions. He openly discussed his ambition to become “the beheading guy” and martyr himself for the cause. Mohamed’s fervor for jihad was matched by Hussein, who shared his intent to join ISIS and fight abroad.
Their sinister plan took a serious turn in 2019. The two men sold their cars to fund their journey and purchased plane tickets from Tucson to Cairo, intending to smuggle themselves into ISIS territory in the Sinai Peninsula. On July 26, 2019, they checked in at Tucson International Airport, cleared security, and headed to their departure gate, with Mohamed carrying approximately $10,000 for travel expenses and firearms. Their plan, however, was thwarted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which arrested them before they could board their flight.
This case highlights the ongoing threat of domestic radicalization and the importance of vigilance and swift action by law enforcement agencies. The FBI, in collaboration with various agencies, successfully intercepted Mohamed and Hussein’s plot, preventing potential future atrocities.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Provide Material Support and Resources to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Both Mohamed and Hussein have agreed to be removed from the United States to Somalia following their imprisonment.
The prosecution is being handled by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. This case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers posed by extremist ideologies and the crucial role of law enforcement in safeguarding national security.
Stay informed and stay safe. For more updates, follow us on Facebook.
