Family on trial for transferring $13 million to Al-Shabaab militants in Somalia
MOGADISHU, Somalia – A family has been dragged before a Mogadishu court for allegedly transferring nearly $13 million to members of the Al-Shabaab group, in a dramatic revelation that, if confirmed, would see them jailed for several years.
The family of three close relatives and an ex-wife were reportedly in contact with the militants before authorities established their links. This monumental case could have an impact on the fight against terrorism in Somalia.
The attorney general’s office, which is prosecuting the case, told the Banadir court that the three family members, including an ex-wife, opened bank accounts that they used to funnel funds to al-Shabaab militants who control large swathes of rural central and southern regions.
The prosecution team’s reports bring to justice a certain Hassan, as well as his wife, daughter and ex-wife, stressing that they are responsible for transferring $12,615,109.9 million to Al-Shabaab operatives.
At the time of the incident, the family had nearly ten bank accounts used for transactions, the prosecutor said. In his defense, however, the man said he was a real estate broker and that Al-Shabaab agents had only contacted him to inquire about the real estate sector.
The accused added that he had only $25 in his bank account, adding that all other family members had opened accounts on his instructions. The hearing ended on Monday and the court is expected to deliver its verdict soon.
The government has put in place strict measures to limit the financing of terrorist groups, and about two years ago Somali authorities closed 250 bank accounts and 70 mobile money transfer companies associated with al-Shabaab militants.
Under the Financial Reporting Centre, Somali banks are only allowed to conduct transactions of up to $10,000. Any amount above this must be reported to the authorities for further instructions and approvals, in accordance with the Public Financial Management Act.
However, according to previous UN reports, terrorist financiers circumvent this process by transferring funds in batches of less than $10,000, thus escaping the FRC’s radar. The militants use money from illegal taxes and extortion to pay fighters and to buy modern equipment.
AXADLETM
