The Justice Department announced the arrest of an American citizen who also holds dual citizenship with Albania. He is accused of trying to provide material support to ISIS.
This development comes amid concerns about possible terrorist activity on American soil.
According to a DOJ press release, Erald Alimehmeti (33) was arrested in New York on Thursday for attempting to distribute explosives-making instructions to ISIS agents.
Born in New York City, he lived there from birth until 2014. He then moved to Albania. Alimehmeti repeatedly broke the law in Albania.
Alimehmeti used encrypted messaging platforms, social networks, and other online tools to coordinate attacks, recruit terrorists, and acquire equipment. Alimehmeti displayed a preference for tactical gear and firearms, and referred to attacks as “DC sniper-style”.
Do You Know How to Snipe Akhi? Alimehmeti questioned a confidential source.
Alimehmeti asked for a range of ‘tactical gear, specialized vests, ballistic plates, magazine pockets, and knives”.
A DOJ press release stated that the suspect regularly posted ISIS propaganda on social media. He shared videos, publications, and videos that praised the group’s leaders.
Alimehmeti praised ISIS propagandist Shaykh ul-Haqqcerantonio, as well as Libyan terrorist Abu Yahya al-Libi. Al-Libi is a senior al-Qaeda terrorist and Libyan member.
Alimehmeti posted links and documents on an encrypted channel. Topics included explosives, firearms, and defensive tactics. Alimehmeti encouraged the use of the information.
Alimehmeti is facing two federal charges. These include attempting to provide material assistance to ISIS and distributing explosives for violent crimes. The maximum sentence on each charge is 20 years in prison.
This comes after the FBI arrested Anas Said. Said admitted to planning terrorist attacks and to using his apartment as a host for ISIS terrorists. Said boasted about being willing to commit “an attack in the style of 9/11”.
ISIS has been linked to the deadly Moscow concert hall attack of March 22, which raised concerns about an attack on American soil. Former General Frank McKenzie said that the group had a strong desire to kill Americans and Europeans living in the U.S.
