A 34-year-old Alexandria taxi driver has been indicted for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to al-Shabaab, a militant group designated operating in Somalia and designated by the United States as a terrorist organization.
Alexandria resident Liban Haji Mohamed, 34, was charged Wednesday by a grand jury at the Alexandria Federal Courthouse.
Mohamed, a naturalized United States citizen, allegedly left the United States in July 2012 and planned to join al-Shabaab in East Africa, according to a U.S. Department of Justice press release. Al-Shabaab is responsible for orchestrating numerous attacks, like the 2013 shooting at a Nairobi shopping mall and the 2017 bombings in Mogadishu, Somalia.
The group has also actively worked to recruit Americans like Mohamed. Mohamed was working as a cab driver in Alexandria before he left the United States through Mexico to travel to Somalia, where he was detained by authorities, according to the Washington Post. The FBI added Mohamed to the Most Wanted Terrorists list in 2015.
“According to court documents, Mohamed allegedly attempted to recruit an undercover agent to travel to Somalia to provide combat training to al-Shabaab fighters,” the Justice Department said. “Mohamed also allegedly planned to use his own media skills to improve al-Shabaab’s propaganda machine, which it has used to recruit Westerners.”
Mohamed was allegedly a close associate of Zachary Chesser, who in 2011 was sentenced to 25 years in prison for attempting to provide support to al-Shabaab, according to the Justice Department.
The Justice Department said if Mohamed is convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.
“Individuals with information concerning Mohamed are asked to contact the FBI or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate,” the Justice Department said. “Tips can be submitted anonymously at https://tips.fbi.gov.”
Photo via FBI
Recent Stories
Super convenient location, all new sun filled patio, brand new siding
(Updated 9:55 p.m.) Alexandria’s Planning Commission voted to recommend eliminating outdoor music at Hops N’ Shine (3410 Mount Vernon Avenue) and the restaurant owners faced some withering rebukes from Planning Commissioners. The…
A man was shot in the West End early Sunday morning, and walked into a 7-Eleven on Lincolnia Road for help. The incident occurred at around 1:45 a.m. in the…
If you haven’t noticed, it’s pretty hazy outside. Smoke from wildfires in Canada has been working down the East Coast, spurring many localities to issue air quality alerts. The City…
Are you seeking a confidential space where you can explore your emotions, overcome challenges, and find inner peace? Look no further than our dedicated psychotherapy service! We understand that life can be overwhelming at times, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, our passion lies in helping individuals like you navigate life’s complexities and find the strength to thrive. Our skilled and compassionate therapist is committed to creating a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly. With our personalized approach, we tailor each session to address your unique needs and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Through evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of the human mind, our therapist will guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we’re here to provide guidance and practical tools for lasting change.
Time flies when you’re having fun! The T.C. Williams High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion July 21-23, 2023 in Alexandria. All graduates and their adult nears and dears are welcome. Events include a Friday evening icebreaker, Saturday dinner dance, and a Sunday brunch. For more information: tcwilliams73.com, 770.789.3534.
