Summary:
Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa indicted for funding ISIS through Turkey.
Over $188,000 transferred using cryptocurrency to facilitate ISIS operations.
FBI revealed funds often routed through Turkish brokers to evade detection.
Chhipa's radicalization linked to social media promoting jihadist messages.
Turkey's government appears to tolerate ISIS activities, complicating efforts to combat terrorism.
Turkey as a Key Player in ISIS Funding
The indictment of Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, a 35-year-old Virginia resident, has uncovered Turkey's pivotal role in facilitating illicit cryptocurrency transactions that fund ISIS operations in Syria. Chhipa, originally from India, allegedly transferred over $188,000 to ISIS, utilizing Turkish intermediaries and cryptocurrency for these transactions.
The Cryptocurrency Scheme
According to FBI Special Agent Gary T. Marosy, the funds sent to ISIS often flowed through Turkish brokers, making use of the difficult-to-trace nature of cryptocurrency. The process involved sending cryptocurrency to couriers in Turkey, who then converted it into cash to smuggle into Syria without detection. Intercepted communications indicated that Chhipa was advised to route funds through Turkey to ensure safety and anonymity.
Chhipa's Radicalization and Activities
Chhipa's radicalization began prior to his arrest, with the FBI flagging him in 2019 due to his social media accounts promoting violent jihadist messages. His communications revealed a strong support for ISIS and a desire to engage in violent acts. After attempting to flee the US in 2019, he returned and continued his activities, even communicating with ISIS women in Syria who were involved in funding operations.
Financial Transactions and Arrest
From November 2019, Chhipa began depositing cash into his bank account and converting it into cryptocurrency through services like Coinbase and Binance, sending substantial amounts to ISIS wallets. The FBI traced over $18,000 sent to ISIS women in Syria and $61,000 to Turkish wallets.
Chhipa was arrested on May 4, 2023, after the FBI placed him under surveillance due to his suspicious activities. He faces serious charges of providing material support to ISIS, which could lead to a 20-year prison sentence.
Turkey's Complicity in ISIS Operations
The case highlights the Erdogan government's apparent tolerance of ISIS activities within Turkey, with many suspects released during trials and few facing actual convictions. Reports indicate that during 2015-2016, the Turkish intelligence agency MIT allegedly collaborated with ISIS to conduct bombings to maintain political power during election cycles. This troubling relationship raises significant concerns about Turkey's role in global terrorism funding.
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